Valencia dreading Tevez winner

DREAD ... Antonio Valencia

ANTONIO VALENCIA fears the prospect of rivals City winning the Manchester derby — and Carlos Tevez scoring the deciding goal.

It is the horror scenario for the red half of a city that is already counting the days to April 30.

That is when the teams lock horns in the season's biggest clash at the Etihad and when the Premier League title will probably be decided.

Like Tevez for City, Valencia has just returned to the United team — and with a similar impact.

His goal at Wolves eight days ago after more injury woes was a stormer, while Tevez's assist for Samir Nasri helped beat Chelsea on Wednesday following his long break.

Valencia continues his comeback against Fulham tonight and is convinced United will win their 20th title. But he cannot stand the thought of Tevez spoiling the party.

He said: "If Carlos plays against us, I'm sure he'll be motivated. He's an excellent player, able to change a match in an instant. What he did against Chelsea was no surprise.

"But for Tevez to score the winner? I hope it doesn't happen.

"And for us to fail and lose the title will bring pain for months. But I'm confident in my team.

BATTLE ... Carlos Tevez and Valencia
"There's a lot of pride in Manchester that our two clubs are the best in England.
"But now we are focused on Fulham because our challenge is to win all our matches and to arrive with an advantage over City on derby day.

"I'm not saying whether that game will decide the title but it's clear the winners will deliver a morale blow to the other club. So I expect a big battle and for us to avenge our 6-1 defeat at Old Trafford."

Valencia, 26, is flying again after last season's horrific broken leg and further injury during the summer's Copa America with Ecuador.

And recently he suffered a troublesome hamstring injury in the Europa League against Ajax.

His excellent performance at Wolves has boss Alex Ferguson purring and Fulham can expect the runaround at Old Trafford.

Fergie said: "Antonio could be very important. His form before he got the injury was outstanding. Now he's back, we hope he stays fit.

"You get two sides to Antonio. He's prepared to work hard, he can tackle, run but he can also beat a man. He's got everything."

Valencia is determined to carry on where he left off and said: "I'm happy to be back. Initially, I feared my latest injury would affect me but this time the situation wasn't so grave.

"Now I dream about helping the team, making the most of my chances.

"It's not easy getting into the first XI at United. That was why I was angered about my last injury.

"I have been working with the physios to advance my recovery and now the key for me is to avoid more injury problems.

"I've a good sensation about the end of season personally — and for the team. Certain blows have affected my career at important moments but I hope these episodes are over and now I think only about playing and winning."