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Football

29th May 2015

Antonio Valencia reveals that a Liverpool legend is the toughest tackler he has played against

Not altogether surprising

Darragh Murphy

Antonio Valencia has made a habit of skipping over challenges and sprinting away from his opponents on the right flank of Old Trafford.

But when he is caught, he’s often sent flying because he’s travelling at such pace and he’s revealed the toughest tackler he has faced during his six years with Manchester United.

The Ecuadorian was answering a Q & A from ManUtd.com and claimed that departing Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard was the fiercest tackler that he’s come up against.

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In terms of the toughest tackler he’s played with, that honour went to Paul Scholes who was famed for picking up bookings for mistimed challenges.

When asked about the fastest opponent he’s played against, Aaron Lennon got the nod while Rafael was announced as his speediest teammate.

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Scholes and Gerrard were also given the honour of best passers he’s played with and against.

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 23:  Steven Gerrard of Liverpool in action during the Barclays Premier League match between Everton and Liverpool at Goodison Park on November 23, 2013 in Liverpool, England.  (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)

In terms of fitness, Rafael also came in for praise from Valencia while Wilson Palacios was revealed as the fittest opponent he’s lined up against.

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The final questions posed to the makeshift right back was about the best finisher he’s played with and against with Wayne Rooney and Didier Drogba taking the plaudits.

LONDON - SEPTEMBER 21:  Wayne Rooney of Manchester United jumps with Didier Drogba of Chelsea during the Barclays Premier League match between Chelsea and Manchester United at Stamford Bridge on September 21, 2008 in London, England.  (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

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