Manchester United winger Antonio Valencia says manager Sir Alex Ferguson's influence was crucial in his successful recovery from a horror ankle injury earlier this season.
Valencia's horror moment came against Rangers on September 14 last year when his left foot caught in the Old Trafford turf and he broke his leg and dislocated his ankle.
"The next morning I was in hospital and the manager came," recalled Valencia. "Mike Phelan, his assistant, was there as well. They didn't really set me any targets, they just said, 'Look, these things happen in football, don't worry, take all the time you need, and everything will be fine'.
"That particular moment really gave me the extra motivation to try to get back as quickly as possible. It really inspired me. Knowing you've still got the full backing of the manager is important."
