Football
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Antonio Valencia deserves recognition for Man United form - Michael Carrick

Michael Carrick has hailed Antonio Valencia as the unsung hero in Manchester United's winning run.

Valencia, 29, has operated as a right wing-back or even a right-back -- rather than as a winger -- in United's sequence of six straight victories, while he set up Wayne Rooney's opening goal in the 3-0 win against Liverpool on Sunday.

The Ecuador international is enjoying arguably his best form for the club since winning their Player of the Year award for the 2011-12 season.

And Carrick, 33, believes his teammate's speed and unselfishness have made him vital for Louis van Gaal's team.

"Antonio is a pure athlete," Carrick 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."

Valencia, who joined from Wigan in 2009, signed a new contract at Old Trafford in the summer and made his 200th United appearance in November's 3-0 win against Hull.

And while he is one of the lower-profile members of the team, Carrick believes the winger has proved invaluable.

"He is pretty much the full package," he added. "He is reserved but determined at the same time. He is quiet, he is pleasant and he is polite.

"He is not somebody who shouts and screams in the changing room but I certainly wouldn't want to get on the wrong side of him. He is stubborn and determined. He has got a real desire to win, like everyone at this club."

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