Manchester United are delighted with Antonio Valencia and believe his recent performances have vindicated their decision to spend £16million on him.

The 24-year old Ecuadorian winger was signed from Wigan in June and brought into replace the departing Cristiano Ronaldo which was looked at in a weird way when it happened.

But now, Valencia has netted on six occasions this season, becoming United's third-highest scorer and attracting praise from manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

"That's six goals for Antonio," said the United boss. "We're happy with that. We've always thought that's one area he can improve on.

"He is improving and his improvement is tremendous and this is an example of that. From the day he came he was a quiet young man, but he is expressing himself well. We like to see the young players come here and develop."