Man Utd hit by Rafael injury blow

Rafael made his debut for United at the start of the season

Manchester United full-back Rafael has been ruled out for up to a month with a fractured ankle.

The 18-year-old Brazilian, who will now miss Sunday's Carling Cup final, picked up the injury in last week's 2-1 win over Blackburn.

"He's out for a month with a hairline fracture of his ankle," United boss Sir Alex Ferguson told the club website.

"It's a blow because he's been playing in all the cup games and he's done so well. He deserves to be in the final."

606: DEBATE Give your thoughts on Man Utd's injury problems

Rafael moved to Old Trafford in 2008 and made his first competitive appearance for United against Newcastle on the first day of the Premier League season.

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