Rafael Maturity Earns Praise

Sir Alex Ferguson feels right-back Rafael is starting to show real maturity in his game.

The Brazilian was outstanding at Blackburn and helped keep another clean sheet against QPR on Sunday. He recovered from a rare slip that almost let in Adel Taarabt to hit the woodwork in the second half before being substituted with a knock. After learning to cope with the Barclays Premier League through experience since arriving from Fluminense as a youngster, the defender is developing into a top-class player.

A red card during the Champions League exit to Bayern Munich in April 2010 was a harsh lesson to learn but Rafael is now striking up a fruitful partnership with Antonio Valencia on the flank and is keeping the likes of Phil Jones, Chris Smalling and his twin brother Fabio out of the starting line-up at the moment.

"I think we've played the same back four over the last few weeks and young Rafa had a really good game [at Blackburn]," said the boss.

"He's doing well. He was always a rash, young boy and his enthusiasm was overwhelming at times but he's settled down quite well and is quite calm in his game now. So, by doing that, he's brought his game to a really good pitch at the moment.

"He's playing really well and combined well with Valencia. There's a good understanding there."

Sir Alex is pleased with the strength of his squad as he looks to close in on a 20th league title.

"We had 22 players at Blackburn and had four out injured so that brings it to 26 players," he commented.

"It's a big squad but you need that at this part of the season. With injuries, the reason for having a bigger squad is obvious.

"You have to protect your team as best you can. I think it's a good, strong squad with good youth and experience in it

"Rio Ferdinand, Patrice Evra, Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes and Michael Carrick. Those five do represent a lot of experience and we expect them to be right on top of their job."