Ferdinand: Rafael can become top Manchester United defender

Manchester United centre-back Rio Ferdinand believes that the club's Brazilian right-back can become an important player for the side.

Rafael, 22, has already scored twice for the Red Devils this season, including a crucial goal against rivals Liverpool at Anfield last weekend, and has shown a desire to improve upon his defensive discipline.

With the former Fluminense youngster earning praise for his displays, Ferdinand believes that he can go on to become a big player in the club's future once he learns to control his emotions.

"Rafa is his own worst critic," Ferdinand said. "He is emotional and sometimes when he makes a mistake he has to make up for it immediately. That comes out in his game at times.

"When I was his age I was a lot like that. I used to be more interested in what was happening in the attacking part of the game and further up the pitch than defensive play. With experience that will disappear and you will see a top right-back."