Neville: Rafael Can Take My Place

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, Neville feels the Reds have a stable back four. "We haven’t had a consistent right-back in the last couple of years," he adds. "I’ve been around and Wes and Sheasy have played some games as well as Rafael, but in the last four or five months we’ve had a consistent performer in that position. Now you can say we’ve got a first-choice back four for the first time in a few years with Rafael, Rio, Vida and Patrice, who are all quality players. That’s important to a team."