Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson sees a long-term central role for winger Antonio Valencia.

Ferguson, who has an array of wide players in Nani, Ashley Young and Ji-Sung Park, believes current right-winger Valencia can emulate Ryan Giggs.

"He [Valencia] is incredibly difficult to beat if you're trying to get around him," said Fergie. "We also see him as an option in the centre of midfield.

"He's very disciplined and able to carry out any instruction we give him."