Thursday, 18th December, 2014
Michael Carrick has stressed that Manchester United winger Antonio Valencia has a winning mentality and said that the Ecuadorian is a wonderful team player.
Valencia was voted the club’s double Player of the Year in 2012 for his performances on the right wing, where he delivered quality balls into the box for his team team-mates to capitalise on.
Under Louis van Gaal the winger has done a good job as a right-back in the absence of Rafael this season and has nailed down a regular spot in the ever-changing Manchester United rearguard.
Carrick feels Valencia’s contribution to the team is often overlooked and the winger often doesn’t get the credit that he deserves.
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The midfielder stressed that Valencia’s qualities are fully appreciated by his team-mates and his will to win at all costs is also something that makes him an endearing member of the Manchester United squad.
"Antonio is a pure athlete", the midfielder told Inside United.
"He is immense. It is the work he does that doesn't get noticed, things like carrying the ball up the pitch for 30 or 40 yards when you have been defending.
"He takes you up the pitch and defenders just back up because they know about his pace. If he can go down the line, then he is pretty hard to catch.
“He is a great team player and, when you are playing with him, you certainly appreciate that he is on your team."
"He is stubborn and determined. He has got a real desire to win, like everyone at this club."
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