Manchester United outcast Victor Valdes fearing for his life while training alone

Victor Valdes feared his life was in danger while training alone at Manchester United.

The Spanish goalkeeper was separated from the first team by boss Louis van Gaal after making just two appearances, and forced to train away from the rest of the squad with academy goalkeeping coach Alan Fettis.

And the 34-year-old has told El Pais that he was so isolated by Van Gaal's reign that he feared for his safety should anything unfortunate happen during his training sessions.

"What if I were to hit the post and were to lose consciousness, and if I swallowed my tongue?" Valdes revealed that he asked Fettis.

"Alan replied: 'I've got my phone in my pocket, I'd call and they'd come to help you.' I told Alan: 'I feel very alone.'"

Valdes has now moved on to Standard Liege, but denied he feels bitter towards Van Gaal, despite his acrimonious enforced exile .

"Rancour? Not at all," the former Barcelona man added.

"He gave me the chance to debut at Barca, he picked me up when I didn't have a side and he gave me the chance to recover from my knee injury.

"I'll always be thankful. Deep down, if it wasn't for him, I wouldn't be here.

"I was training alone [at United]. Do you know what is that? Here [at Standard] I am happy just to be in the dressing room. For me [Standard] are the best club in the world."

By AFP 8 hrs ago
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