Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand says fans are now seeing the true character of Antonio Valencia.

Valencia is beginning to express himself more on the pitch.

"It has taken Antonio a long time to come out of his shell but he understands English a lot more than he lets on," he said.

"He is really funny. If there is something going on in the changing room or someone is taking the Mick, he is involved in some way.

"The other day is the first time we have seen him show real emotion. That tells you what time of the season it is."