GARRY BACK RAFEAL AS NUMBER 1

Gary Neville is backing
Rafael to be his long-
term successor in
United's defence.
Neville announced his
retirement last week after an
illustrious career spanning
two decades. After breaking
into the team in the mid '90s,
the former England
international became his
generation's best right-
back. But Neville feels United
have already found the man
to fill his boots.
"He’s more than capable of
going on to become United’s
right-back for many, many
years," Neville told
ManUtd.com. "His
performances in the last six
months in particular have
been brilliant. He ’s matured
and really come of age. I
remember when I was young
defender you need that time
to mature and get
experience.
"Rafael’s always had ability -
he gets to the ball quickly,
he ’s aggressive, he defends
his position well, he’s tough,
courageous, good on the ball
and provides energy in
attack, but he ’s really
developed in the last six
months with games and
experience. He has a great
attitude too."
Such has been Rafael's
progress this season.