The Ecuadorian winger offers a different line of attack to many of Manchester United’s other forwards, and his work rate gives a defensive incentive for his inclusion as well.
Predicting how Alex Ferguson will arrange his surfeit of wonderful forwards on a given match day is not an easy thing to do, and can cause no end of fantasy football frustration. But as the season progresses, I would argue that three of the four available slots have been filled. Van Persie and Rooney have struck up an excellent partnership far more quickly than fans could have hoped, and are indispensable to the starting eleven. Antonio Valencia should also be added to those two as a player who should start any game based on merit.
There is no better right winger in the Premier League at the moment, and Valencia’s all round play makes him a perfect fit in Ferguson’s system. He is able to provide the ammunition for Rooney and van Persie from the wing, not only creating chances but stretching the play so others can enjoy more space in the centre of the pitch. Kagawa is an excellent player, but with him lining up in a front four Manchester United can end up putting the majority of play through the middle of the pitch, and become more predictable as a result.
Valencia’s awe-inspiring work rate also means that United have more balance when he is on the pitch, with the Ecuadorian happy to double up with Rafael in defensive positions as well as going forward. This partnership means that the young Brazilian full back has slightly more freedom, and doesn’t look so exposed defensively.
The two of them were excellent against Chelsea at the weekend. Although the game was ultimately decided by some questionable refereeing decisions, they were a constant threat down the right. Rafael’s willingness to go on the overlap, and Hazard’s complete unwillingness to follow him, meant he and Valencia were able to overload Cole down the left flank. Both Rafael and Valencia ended up picking up assists as a result.
Ferguson will no doubt continue to shuffle his pack as the season goes on, moving players in and out of the side depending on the opposition he faces. But in any system he does put out, recent performances mean he should try and find room for Valencia.
image: © Magnus D
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