Players Opt For Valencia

Antonio Valencia has capped a sparkling season by winning the Manchester United Players' Player of the Year award.

The Ecuadorian winger received the highest number of votes cast within the first-team squad and he collected his prize from Sir Alex Ferguson in Monday night's glittering dinner at Old Trafford.

"It's great that they've put their trust in me," said Valencia on stage. "I'm very pleased that I have their support."

Asked to recap on a campaign which he joined late, having missed the summer tour, Antonio said: "It was tough not being able to go away and do a proper pre-season with the lads. But as the season went on, I managed to pick up and my fitness improved and as a squad we've put in a good performance."

Sir Alex praised the award-winner, telling awards host Jim Rosenthal: "The form he's produced this season since coming back from injury has been amazing. He's a great professional and he has the qualities we love in our game. I think that's why the other players have given him this award."