Wigan seal Valencia deal

Wide man commits to Latics on long-term contract

Last updated: 18th January 2008

Antonio Valencia

Valencia: Content at Wigan

Related links

Teams

Players

Also see

Wigan Athletic have confirmed the permanent capture of Ecuadorian winger Antonio Valencia for an undisclosed fee.

The 23-year-old has impressed whilst on loan at the The JJB from Villarreal and has now signed a three-and-a-half year deal with the Premier League club.

Although the deal is subject to him receiving international clearance, this only relates to the latter part of his contract as he has already been granted permission to remain in England until the end of 2008.

Latics boss Steve Bruce has spoken of his delight at securing the long-term services of a player he has been hugely impressed with since taking over the Wigan reins.

Bruce buoyant

"I knew about him before I came to the club," said Bruce, on the club's official website.

"But having seen him at close quarters these past few weeks, I now realise just how good he is and to get him signed permanently was one of my priorities. I felt it was important to get it done sooner rather than later.

"He is the sort of player who I believe can play a big role in the Premier League future of this club. He has pace, trickery, is strong as an ox and has a great work ethic. Plus he's a really likeable boy.

"Now that his future is sorted out, I want him to focus completely on his football and keep improving because I believe he has the potential to be a top, top player."

Happy to stay

Valencia, who has played 35 times in the league for the Latics since arriving on loan at the start of the 2006-07 season, has echoed the words of his manager.

"I am really happy this has been sorted. I have always wanted to play in England and now that Wigan have given me the chance, I am happy to repay them by staying here.

"The Premier League is a fantastic place to play and I have really enjoyed working with Steve Bruce, you can see how the team is motivated now and I think he will be successful here in the seasons to come."