"Older Players Marvel At Rafael's Ability"

Rafael Da Silva is likely to get the nod to play against Villarreal in United’s Champions League match tonight, with both Gary Neville and Wes Brown not making the journey to Spain.

Rafael’s only appearance since his wonder goal at Arsenal has been in United’s 1-0 win over QPR in the League Cup, not getting any time in our league games against Stoke and Aston Villa.

Both Sir Alex Ferguson and Nemanja Vidic have spoken highly of the defender today, both expecting big things in his future.

“He is one of the players that excites us,” said Ferguson. “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 has also sung the young Brazilian’s praises, claiming Rafael is improving all the time.

“First of all he has shown great character,” said Vidic. “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.”