The Louis van Gaal effect; potential Manchester United XI come August

Jun 4, 2014; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Ecuador midfielder Antonio Valencia (16) controls the ball against England during the first half at Sun Life Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

Antonio Valencia (RWB)

Rather than purchase a right back, or expect Chris Smalling to be utilized going forward in an attacking move, why not just shift Valencia there full time?  He just signed a new contract at the club, despite many feeling he may be on his way out – could this be LvG’s thinking all along?

Valencia is already a very hard working right sided player, he’s got blistering pace, contributes on the defensive side of the ball as a winger and has the ability to deliver telling crosses with some consistency.  Despite his questionable discipline, Valencia fits the mold for the 5-3-2 that Manchester United may switch to under the Dutchman.  Yes there is 200million to spend, but why spend it all if you do not have to?  Part of rebuilding a club is keeping a core of players who are already there, and if given a chance, Valencia could well come good.