Marcelino hails "extraordinary" Eric Bailly

Valencia boss Marcelino has branded Manchester United defender Eric Bailly "an extraordinary player and an extraordinary person".

Marcelino managed Bailly at Villarreal, and the pair will reunite on Wednesday night when Valencia host United in the group stage of the Champions League.

Bailly impressed during his first season at Old Trafford following a 2016 move from Villarreal, but injuries harmed his 2017-18 campaign and he has been out of favour at the club this term.

The Ivory Coast international could be given the nod to start against Los Che in Spain, however, with United already having booked their spot in the last-16 stage of the Champions League.

"He's an extraordinary player and an extraordinary person. I'm so sorry for his injuries, because I know his performances are conditioned by this. I know he is having a hard time and suffering when trying to have a stable rhythm in the team," Marcelino told reporters.

"I wish nothing but the best for him and I feel his youth will help him through these hard times and he will be very important for United."

Bailly has only made eight appearances for the Red Devils this season.