Rafael relishing United extension

Manchester United FC right-back Rafael has agreed a two-year contract extension with the European and English champions, keeping him at the club until 2013.

Fine first season
The 18-year-old Brazilian defender has enjoyed a fine first season with United, making 13 Premier League appearances – including ten starts – since arriving from Fluminense FC last summer. His sole goal came against Arsenal FC in November, and Rafael is in line to feature against the same opponents in Wednesday's UEFA Champions League semi-final first leg at Old Trafford. "It has been a fantastic first year and I have been learning from all the players at the club but especially from the defence," Rafael said. "It has been an exciting time for me and I want to be part of this for a long time so to get an extension is unbelievable."

'Enthusiasm and adventure'
His manager, Sir Alex Ferguson, is similarly enthused, adding: "Everyone at the club has been very impressed and excited by his first year as a professional. His enthusiasm and the adventurous way he plays is typical of a Manchester United player and we are delighted he has signed a new contract." Rafael's twin brother Fabio, a left-back, was also signed by United in January 2008 and has figured in two FA Cup ties for the first team.