Valencia Signs New Four-Year Contract with United

Manchester United winger Antonio Valencia signed a new four-year contract with the Premier League champions on Monday.

Valencia has emerged as a key figure in Sir Alex Ferguson's team since his move from Wigan in 2009 and the Ecuador international has been rewarded with an extended and improved deal.

The 25-year-old, who missed six months of last season with a broken ankle, is now contracted to United until the end of the 2014-15 season.

Ferguson was delighted to ensure Valencia's future remains at Old Trafford and hailed the player's contribution over the last two years.

"Antonio has made a fantastic contribution since his arrival. His speed, crossing ability and versatility have been a big asset for us," Ferguson told United's website.

"He has a quiet, unassuming way of going about his business, which is underlined by great strength of character - as his recovery from such a bad injury last season proves."

Valencia has already won the Premier League and Leage Cup with United and he has set his sights on more silverware.

"I am delighted to stay at United. Since my first day at the training ground, I have been happy here. I hope that I can continue to develop as a player," he said.

"I am looking forward to making my contribution to helping this squad compete for more trophies."