Back in 2009 when Valencia signed for Manchester United. I along with many other United fans around the globe didn't really know what to think, especially given his high price tag of £17 million.
It was at a time when we were still reeling from the loss of our beloved Cristiano Ronaldo to Real Madrid. His transfer created a huge hole in our team and our heart, a hole we never thought a relatively untested player would fill in his boots, let alone wear his jersey.
However as its often said, Sir Alex pulled off a coup, in signing the burly Ecuadorian. What followed was not as eye catching as CR7 but you had to admit, he did have pace and a penchant for driving pin point crosses into the box.
Despite a bright start, two injury disrupted seasons did not allow the world to see this talented winger in action in full flow.
Last season was the one in which the Premier League really sat up and noticed him as a top class performer. The lung bursting runs along the right wing leaving defenders in his wake and then unleashing bullet like crosses into the box for the waiting Wayne Rooney or Javier Hernandez were really his trademark.
An old fashioned winger who doesn'tt drift in much, preferring to run along the side line, Valencia chipped in with six goals and 13 assists, with only David Silva above him having provided 15 assists in far more game time.
A season where he strived to realise his potential and worked tirelessly for his team was justly rewarded Manchester United fans’ and players’ player of the year award, and award for goal of the, season award, for his goal against Blackburn Rovers.
The only weakness I considered in Valencia was the lack of use of his left foot in his gameplay. However watching him cross with his left against Fulham heartened me and made up my mind.
He is a player who really deserves to be where he is today, the 27-year-old Ecuadorian can go ahead and establish himself as a legend at the biggest club in the world. Not too much to ask for him I believe, as now he does wear the jersey number worn by legends.
What do you think Valencia can go on and achieve for United? Can he lead them to the title this season?
image: © Magnus D
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