We didn't NEED Van Persie to win title... we could've done it without him, says Valencia



Antonio Valencia claims Manchester United might not have needed Robin van Persie to regain the Premier League title.

The Dutchman has been credited with swinging the balance in United’s favour after scoring 29 goals in his first season at Old Trafford.

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Bold: Antonio Valencia thinks Manchester United could have won the title without Robin van Persie

But Valencia believes United’s hunger to win the title back from rivals Manchester City could have been enough anyway.

‘Destiny is a funny thing,’ said the Ecuador winger.

‘We had so much determination at the start of the season because we wanted to make up for last year and win the title.

‘So whilst you can’t doubt what Robin has added, we may have done it without him.

‘But Robin has great ability, huge skill levels and can almost solve any problem he comes up against. As a winger it is a joy to play and work alongside him.’

Valencia was voted United’s player of the year last season but admits he has fallen short of expectations this term despite the club’s success.

He added: ‘If you make a comparison with the previous season it wasn’t quite what I was hoping for. I have maybe not been able to recreate the form of last year.’

Meanwhile, Van Persie is still savouring his first title and says he cannot wait to have a picture of himself holding the Premier League trophy hanging on his wall at home.

‘I had to wait a long time to be a champion but it tastes lovely,’ said United’ s £24million summer signing.



‘I feel like I’m floating on a cloud.’

Prolific: Van Persie has scored 29 goals for Manchester United in all competitions this season

VIDEO: Watch highlights of Manchester United's defeat by Chelsea



