Valencia set to boost United's title charge with return
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Long-term crock Valencia set to boost Manchester United's title charge with return from injury
Raring to go: Antonio Valencia is nearing his comeback from injury
Antonio Valencia is set to hand Manchester United a timely boost by returning to action for their title run-in.
The Ecuador winger is back in training with the first-team squad at Carrington in the final stages of recovery from the horrific broken ankle he suffered in the Champions League clash at home to Rangers last September.
And with fellow Red Devils winger Nani on the treatment table for around four weeks with a gashed leg following Jamie Carragher's tackle at Anfield last Sunday, Valencia's return cannot come soon enough for United.
In the stands: Valencia watched Manchester United's defeat at Liverpool last weekend
The 25-year-old former Wigan ace had been expected to miss the entire season, but has made speedy progress and returned to training last month.
Valencia made an instant impression in his first season at Old Trafford following his £17m move from the DW Stadium in 2009.
Wayne Rooney in particular benefited from his flying form down the right flank, with the pair linking up for many of Rooney's goals last term.
Valencia started this season in similar vein, scoring in United's 3-1 Community Shield win over Chelsea in August. But he has since made just three further appearances due to injury.