Antonio Valencia was in Honduras last week helping former Wigan team mate, Wilson Palacios, with the opening of a sports complex, along with Maynor Figueroa.

“He had two years at Wigan when we arrived,” said Palacios. “We have a very good relationship with Figueroa. He is a good friend and supported us when we were new, so I invited him to thank him. When I was at Wigan Valencia was more than a team mate, he was like a brother.”

Valencia echoed Palacios’ sentiments and claimed there was no way he would miss being there.

“I am delighted to be here in Honduras, a beautiful country, and to share with my friend Wilson this important moment for him and his family,” said Valencia. “When Wilson asked me not hesitate. I told him ‘I’ll be there, I want to know your country’.”

Palacios explained why he wanted to develop a sports complex in his home country.

“When I started playing football I did not have a place to play,” said Palacios. “It is a dream come true to build a complex that will benefit all children. We would also like to further focus on developing more youngsters here.”