Rafael reveals Man Utd defensive weakness

Manchester United look so good in parts that the sections that are not up to scratch look even worse.

United’s injury worries apart, the real weak spots have come from tried and trusted players… or well, tried at least.

One of those ‘weak spots’ is Rafael.

Despite being trained in his right back role for years now, Rafael has been easily over-run in defence, especially against Everton.

In fact for his attacking prowess, on the face of the first three games, Rafael is a defensive liability, likely to give away a cheap free kick in a dangerous area and even more likely to give away the ball.

By his own admission, Rafael told United Review, "When I was younger, I played as a striker.

I like heading the ball and it was great to score against Fulham - it was a really good cross by Ashley Young and I was in a good position. I enjoy getting forward.”

Wigan almost exploited that yesterday, especially one heart-stopping moment when Rafael, like he normally does at least twice in game, failed to stay on his feet in a one-on-one situation.

Future opponents will have noted that.

A wing back who likes to get forward leaving the gates open in defence.

And Rafael knows this.

"Of course, as a player you can always improve something.

“I think I need to improve my defending and I have said this since I arrived here. I keep working hard at that and I will keep working to try and improve."

DEFENCE, ALL ATTACK 

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