manchester United - Fabio

Fabio da Silva is a right-footed, left-sided defender but, like his twin brother Rafael, loves to get forward. Spotted in 2005 by Les Kershaw, then United's Academy manager, while playing for Fluminense in a Hong Kong youth tournament, it wasn't long before the Reds came knocking.

Fabio has already proved his potential on the youth international stage. He captained and top-scored in the Under-17 World Cup finals in Korea in 2007.

FIFA's official website heaped praise on the teenager after their game against Ghana. "Brazil's calm and intricate build-up play was impressive to behold as the imperious Fabio pulled the strings."

It's that kind of promise that had Sir Alex waxing lyrical about the Brazilian pair. "It's a typical Brazilian situation," he says. "They just love playing. They're quick and they're determined. I think they're both excellent footballers, I really do."

The United manager's persistence in signing the pair showed just how highly he rated them. "Their old club Fluminense didn'y play them because they were joining us. They came over in January 2008 [before officially signing in July 2008], but it was too late for the work permit application."

When Fabio and Rafael turned 18, it meant United could apply for international clearance, which came through a few days before United faced Peterborough in a pre-season friendly on 4 August 2008.

Having watched from the bench as his brother Rafael delivered an outstanding first-half performance, Fabio came off the bench to produce an equally sharp display, showing energy and enthusiasm, and plenty of ability too.

Fabio's first-team debut came in the Reds' FA Cup fourth round clash against Tottenham Hotspur on 24 January 2009. The left-back impressed greatly but picked up a calf injury and limped off after 53 minutes.

Further first-team opportunities have been limited (largely due to Patrice Evra's excellent form), but Fabio has consistently produced the goods (and the goals) in the Reserves. In March 2009 he nettted a hat-trick in the Reserves' 4-1 Lancashire Senior Cup win over Rochdale Rovers.

PROFILE: Birthdate: 09 Jul 1990
Birthplace: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Position: Left-back
Appearances: 8
Goals: 0
Joined United: 01 Jul 2008
United Debut: 24 Jan 2009 v Spurs (H)
International Brazil