Antonio Valencia not fully fit despite stunning strike in League Cup win, says Manchester United's Sir Alex Ferguson

Oct 26, 2011

The Ecuador winger has not been a regular fixture at Old Trafford this season but the manager believes he needs a few more games under his belt to hit his best run of form

Manchester United winger Antonio Valencia needs a few more games under his belt before he can reach top form according to manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

The Ecuadorian winger, 26, hammered in from 25 yards out to score the third and final goal in the 3-0 League Cup win at Aldershot on Tuesday night, with strikers Dimitar Berbatov and Michael Owen getting a goal apiece beforehand.

The former Wigan Athletic midfielder will be hoping to continue putting in solid performances when he is given the opportunity to remain in the Ferguson’s first team plans.

“I had a chat with Antonio yesterday,” the 69-year-old coach told MUTV after the League Cup triumph. “He, himself, says he's needing games.

“He was a long time out and has been back but probably needs another few games. Tonight was another one.”

The Red Devils suffered a humiliating 6-1 defeat at home to local rivals Manchester City on Sunday and will have been keen to get back to winning ways against a side three leagues below them.

Phil Jones was the only player to feature against Aldershot who also played in the record-breaking loss at Old Trafford last weekend.

On Saturday the champions face Everton and will be looking to bounce back in the Premier League title race at Goodison Park.