The 3 most improved Manchester United players of 2016

Antonio Valencia

Antonio Valencia was signed as a winger when he joined Manchester United back in 2009, but has slowly but surely become their first choice right-back.

The Ecuadorian international missed the first couple of months of 2016 due to a foot injury he sustained last October, but immediately set about regaining his place in the side.

And several impressive defensive displays mean that he is now a dependable option for Mourinho at right-back.

The 31-year-old has started 15 of United’s 18 Premier League games this season, with an injury to his arm the only reason he missed the other three, and it’s clear that he has improved the defensive side of his game this season.

However, he has not lost any of his attacking intent, and always provides a good option out wide for United when needed.

Valencia has developed into a fine defender, and looks set for a key role in the United back four in 2017.