Albiston Assesses Full-backs

Former United defender Arthur Albiston has discussed the current situation regarding the full-backs at the club.

The Scot knows plenty about playing for the Reds in the demanding role, after making nearly 500 appearances during his career, and is aware that there has been talk of a new arrival. With Fabio expected to head out on loan, cover for Patrice Evra could be targeted while Rafael is looking to nail down a regular place on the opposite flank.

"There's been all sorts of names touted around by agents," said Albiston. "It was clearly a little bit of a difficult season for Evra. He's been so consistent in the time he's been here but there were the circumstances with the [Luis] Suarez incident hanging around for three months.

"Everyone expects him to play just as well as the last three or four seasons and he started coming back to his old self again in the last few games of the season.

"Rafael is so lively and bouncy - he's like a cat on a hot tin roof. He's just so springy. He's got to learn things as he definitely got caught out in a couple of games, notably the Everton draw when it was highlighted. But he's still learning and is only a young lad. It's all happening quickly for him in the time he's been here and he'll benefit from any disappointments.

"The manager and staff have got to look all the time for emerging, young players and Fabio is going out on loan so he'll benefit from that. He needs to play 20-30 games to get some experience.

"He's got to grow up and he should be fine. His brother has played more games and is used to everybody now so he should be fine with them being apart as it makes you grow up."