Raring to go: Antonio Valencia is nearing his
comeback from injury
Antonio Valencia is set to hand Manchester United a timely boost by
returning to action for their title run-in.
The Ecuador winger is back in training with the first-team squad
at Carrington in the final stages of recovery from the horrific
broken ankle he suffered in the Champions League clash at home to
Rangers last September.
And with fellow Red Devils winger Nani on the treatment table
for around four weeks with a gashed leg following Jamie Carragher's
tackle at Anfield last Sunday, Valencia's return cannot come soon
enough for United.
In the stands: Valencia watched Manchester United's
defeat at Liverpool last weekend
The 25-year-old former Wigan ace had been expected to
miss the entire season, but has made speedy progress and returned
to training last month.
Valencia made an instant impression in his first season at Old
Trafford following his £17m move from the DW Stadium in 2009.
Wayne Rooney in particular benefited from his flying form down
the right flank, with the pair linking up for many of Rooney's
goals last term.
Valencia started this season in similar vein, scoring in
United's 3-1 Community Shield win over Chelsea in August. But
he has since made just three further appearances due to
injury.