Manchester United have managed six successive victories in the league since suffering the shock defeat against Swansea towards the end of February.

This amazing run of form has propelled them into the top three of the Premier League. Confidence has been a major factor behind such improved results, while United are also playing much better football than they did in the first half of the campaign. At times during this run, United have looked like reaching their old self in terms of style of play and the ability to destroy the opposition. Much of this has been down to the confidence gained under Louis Van Gaal according to winger Antonio Valencia.

The Ecuadorian player has been an integral part of this United team. Only two players – David de Gea and Wayne Rooney – have featured in more league games than Valencia. He has not only been contributing from an attacking point of view, but also as a right back. This has helped Van Gaal overcome the injury crisis especially in defence. Regular right back Rafael Da Silva has not been available for much of the campaign and Valencia has played in his absence. The included in winger is especially confident going into the match against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.

“Not only do I have the confidence of the manager and the faith he has shown in me, but I also enjoy the confidence that my team-mates and the supporters have given me.Confidence has been on the increase for some time; that’s down to the results we have picked up. We’ve also worked hard and that has put us in good form ahead of such an important game as the derby. Let’s hope we can perform well,” said Valencia. The primary objective for United will be to secure a top four place before aspiring for the title.