Manchester United: three problematic positions the Red Devils need to fix

#2 Right-back

Valencia was subbed off in the second-half.

Antonio Valencia has been a stand-out performer in United's back-four, featuring regularly at the right-back. The player is probably the team's best defender at the moment.

However, the stock of the Ecuadorian is falling substantially at the Theater of Dreams as he approaches his 33rd birthday in August. Valencia appears to be rusty and weary at the moment.

The demands of the EPL and fixture congestion appear to hinder his performances. Jose has managed the player brilliantly by keeping a strong check on his game time.

The defender was barely used in the mid-week fixtures by the manager till December. United need to find a player who can promise them three games in seven days more often.

Against Palace, Valencia was partly at fault for the second goal conceded as he could not track his runner from the free-kick. He was taken off to give the team more aggression.

With just a few playing years left under his belt, United should invest in a young player who can then be mentored by the 32 year old.