Manchester United captain Antonio Valencia has revealed that he has been dropped by manager Jose Mourinho. The Ecuador international has not feature for the Red Devils since the 0-0 Champions League draw against Valencia at the start of October and during this period, it had been highlighted that he is recovering following a mouth surgery.

However, speaking to Area Deportivo, Valencia has suggested that this is not the case and his absence from the starting lineup has been rather tactical with Ashley Young preferred ahead of him for the right-back duties, he said: “Right now I haven't been playing, but it's more of a tactical decision,' he told Area Deportivo in his homeland. The player who has been in my place (Young) has been playing well.You have to respect the decision.”

Valencia added that he continues to have a good relationship with the manager unlike stated in the press and he is prepared to keep patience in terms of winning over the position, he further told: “The only thing I can do is prepare and be ready for when he (Mourinho) needs me and be in the right condition to compete. I'm calm right now and I know I'll get an opportunity to play again. The relationship with Mourinho has always been a good one.”

“Valencia’s future has been a regular topic of discussion since the summer with Diogo Dalot brought into the squad for competition.“ However, he has continued to remain a front figure with Mourinho making him the club-captain but it remains to be seen
“whether he would stay“ put with the club beyond the ongoing campaign.

The Ecuadorian currently has just eight months remaining on his existing deal with the Red Devils but reports indicate that talks are already underway to reward him with another year’s extension. Valencia has made nearly 350 appearances for United across all competitions since joining them from Wigan Athletic during the summer of 2009.