The 23-year-old has earned rave reviews for his performances on the right since his move from Villarreal in 2006, with Manchester United reportedly interested in signing him during the summer.

Valencia impressed in the centre against Liverpool last weekend before his sending-off, and Black said: "A central midfield player is ultimately what Antonio will be I think, it allows him to go left and right on the pitch.

"When he plays out on the right, he can only go one way - he's restricted by the touchline. Antonio strikes the ball really well and is a very good footballer - if you asked him to play right-back next week he would be decent.

"He's looking the part in the centre. Wilson Palacios, Lee Cattermole and him made a tight-looking three.

"Valencia and Palacios took care of (Steven) Gerrard and (Xabi) Alonso against Liverpool. Gerrard certainly wasn't the figure he normally is."