Has this man established himself as Man United’s most valuable player?

It’s funny how things change in the footballing world. One moment you’re making a name for yourself with Wigan in the Premier League and the next you’re making a big move to Manchester United, ready to establish yourself at the very top level. Finally, you’re not only performing well, week-in and week-out, you’re arguably the club’s most important player and one of the players of the season. I’m talking of course, about United’s Antonio Valencia, a man who has made impressive bounds in the League this season.

If you were asked who United’s most important player was last summer, you’d no doubt roll off a list of the usual names: Wayne Rooney, NemanjaVidic or Nani. I doubt very much that Valencia would have had a look in. This season, however, if I compiled a list of players based purely on performance, Valencia would have to be at the top. Whilst the likes of Wayne Rooney have come in and out of focus, Valencia has been United’s constant – a consistent source of energy and ability and a man who has stood up when Fergie has needed somebody to do so.

When he first arrived at the club he was tasked with the unenviably task of filling Ronaldo’s boots – something nobody realistically believed he would do. Thankfully Valencia didn’t feel the pressure, stuck to what he did well at Wigan and slowly worked his way into the United first team. His importance to this United team was made clear by the injury he picked up whilst on Copa America duty and Fergie struggled to find somebody who could exercise similar influence on the team.

When he did return he was deployed as cover for Rafael and Smalling in the right-back position, but it wasn’t until Fergieentrusted him with his preferred right-wing position that he really found his best form. His knack at knocking in low, pacey crosses that are difficult for defenders to deal with and his ability to drive play forward have given United extra attacking emphasis this season.

His importance hasn’t been lost on Wayne Rooney who had these kind words to say: “Antonio has been playing brilliantly. He is back to his best and when he is like that he is so difficult to defend against.”Indeed – as the likes of Stoke, Arsenal and Bolton have found in recent weeks. He’s in a rich vein of form and this could be a great help to Fergie as he attempts to pluck the title away from City’s reach.

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