Sir Alex Ferguson is excited by young Manchester United Football Club fullback Rafael da Silva.

Speaking after the young Brazilian right-back impressed against Aalborg in the 3-0 UEFA Champions League win, Ferguson was beaming about the 18-year-old.

"We have great hopes for the lad," said the Reds manager. "He has impressed us a lot. Some people might have been a bit surprised I picked him over Wes Brown but I feel the boy has something special.

"Rafael has no fear of playing and has great belief in himself. He is only 18 but he has started very well. He did well against Middlesbrough last week and he has progressed again.

"He is really positive and has a great chance in the future."