24/11/2008 20:49, Report by Ben Hibbs in Valencia
Rafael's only way is up
Rafael will most likely be handed right-back duties on Tuesday night against Villarreal, but Sir Alex Ferguson has no qualms about resting such responsibility on young shoulders.
The 18-year-old Brazilian has already proved a dab hand at making the transition from relative obscurity to playing for the English and European champions look like a far simpler step than it would for most.
He is already tipped for a very bright future for the Reds from his team-mates, and reignited Sir Alex's belief that young players can make such a huge stride forward in their career with enthusiasm and no shortage of ability.
"He is one of the players that excites us," said the boss. "He gives us renewed faith that young players, no matter what age they are, can come into the Manchester United first team and excel.
"In every game he has played in this season, there has been evidence of great improvement in the boy. Even in training, the older players marvel at his enthusiasm and ability to play."
Nemanja Vidic is one such player who will gladly go into battle flanked by this Brazilian bundle of energy.
"First of all he has shown great character," says the steely Serbian. "He is very young and he has been with us for less than a year, but he is improving every day and I think he has a great future for Manchester United. He has the potential to be a great player."
Rafael was handed a surprise start for the Reds against Aalborg, but with another outing looming against Villarreal, this looks like just another of many appearances in the United first-team. |
發表於 2008-11-25 05:28 AM
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