Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho has heaped praise on Antonio Valencia after the Ecuadorian had his contract extended for another year.
The former Wigan Athletic winger is tied to Old Trafford for another 18 months having joined the club in 2009, and has become Mourinho’s first-choice right back this season thanks to a series of powerful and industrious performances.
Speaking to MUTV via Manutd.com, Mourinho had this to say on Valencia’s new deal:”I don’t think it is a reward, I don’t see it in this perspective. I just think he is the best right-back you can have. There is no better right-back in football. It is just for us to keep the best. I don’t think it is a reward. It is a privilege for us to have such a good player and such a good man.”
Valencia has made 270 appearances in all competitions for the club since he signed, and when his current deal runs out, he will have spent nine years at Old Trafford, and will likely be eligible for a testimonial match should he earn another extension.
