Manchester United defender Rafael is hoping his return from injury can help the club’s to retain their English Premier League title.
After overcoming a shoulder problem which curtailed his involvement at the start of the campaign, Brazilian Rafael has featured regularly for United since returning to action on December 22.
The right back acknowledged his team have failed to match the high standard they set early in the season, but is nevertheless satisfied at keeping pace with league leaders Manchester City.
“At the beginning, we were unbelievable,” Rafael told United’s official website.
“It was brilliant. Now, it might not be so spectacular but we are still getting results.”
“To be right up there alongside Manchester City is a big achievement when you consider the injuries we’ve had.”
“We’ve had a lot of them this season and a lot of bad luck, too. But there’s no point complaining about those things. And anyway, we’re still in a good position.”
“In many ways, it feels like it’s only the beginning of the season for me. I know it’s the end of January already, but I’m just getting started. So I’m really looking forward to playing as many games as possible and, hopefully, helping the team win another title.”
Rafael is aware new competition has emerged at right-back during his absence, with Phil Jones, Chris Smalling and Antonio Valencia all fielded there at times this season.
“It’s a good thing when you have that sort of competition,” he said.
“When I watch Phil or Chris play at right-back I just think, ‘Wow. Okay, I’m going to have to work even harder now if I want to get back in the team.’ They’ve done really well.”
