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Antonio Valencia
Antonio Valencia holds his head after injuring his leg during Manchester United's draw with Rangers. Photograph: Tom Jenkins
Antonio Valencia holds his head after injuring his leg during Manchester United's draw with Rangers. Photograph: Tom Jenkins

Antonio Valencia out for 'good portion of season'

This article is more than 13 years old
Manchester United winger also suffered ligament damage
'A plate has been inserted to stabilise the fracture'

Manchester United's Antonio Valencia suffered significant ligament damage as well as a fractured ankle against Rangers on Tuesday and will be out for "a good portion" of the season.

The Ecuadorian winger underwent an operation yesterday after suffering the injury in a challenge with Kirk Broadfoot in the Champions League tie at Old Trafford.

"The operation went well," said a United spokesperson. "A plate has been inserted to stabilise the fracture but there is obvious significant ligament damage that follows a dislocation and he will be out for a good portion of the season."

In the immediate aftermath of the incident, the United manager Sir Alex Ferguson ruled Valencia out of the remainder of the campaign and likened the injury to one suffered by Alan Smith in 2006.

The statement also denied claims attributed to the Ecuador team doctor about Valencia's mental state and insisted he is feeling positive about his recovery.

"Contrary to recent reports, there has been no official contact from the Ecuadorian national team," said the spokesperson. "Antonio is perfectly fine, very positive and very determined."

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