Antonio Valencia was voted the Manchester United player of the season by his teammates and was just 200 votes behind Ander Herrera for being named Sir Matt Busby player of the year. 

Having leapfrogged Chris Smalling in pecking order, Valencia captained United in our Europa League final win over Ajax. 

Days later, Valencia extended his contract at the club, meaning he will be entitled to a testimonial before he leaves the club. 

Manchester United has been my life since 2009 and I am absolutely delighted to have signed a new contract. Wednesday evening provided the one trophy this club had never won and it was a true honour for me to captain the team for the final. I would like to thank the Manager for the confidence he has given me this season and I am sure that we will be challenging on all fronts next season. I would also like to say a big thank you to my family, my team-mates and, of course, the fans, for their amazing support.

José Mourinho was complimentary of the player who he earlier claimed was the best right-back in the world. Our manager had tried to sign Valencia when he was the manager of Real Madrid and hasn’t been disappointed in his performances now that he finally gets to work alongside the right-back. 

It is no secret that I had been an admirer of Antonio’s long before I joined the club. I knew what a fantastic player he was and he has not disappointed me on that front. However, what I could never have imagined was what a great person he is. I know I have said this before but I truly believe it is a real privilege for us to have such a good player and such a good man. I am delighted he has extended his contract.

It’s great to see that Valencia’s performances and loyalty have been rewarded. Five years ago, Valencia sacked his agent Diego Herrera as he had no intention of leaving the club and just wanted to keep extending his deal at United. 

I do not want to move from Manchester I am very happy and so I separated from Diego. I’m happy where I live and I enjoy being in Manchester every day.