Manchester United fullback Rafael to miss remainder of season with broken ribs

Manchester United will be without the services of fullback Rafael for the rest of the season.

Manager Louis van Gaal told the club's official website that the Brazilian - still only 24 (although it feels he's been around as long you can remember) - suffered broken ribs while playing with the under-21 side earlier this week.

"It's unbelievable," the bench boss said. "He has broken his ribs so he shall not play any more this season for Manchester United. It's very unfortunate."

The loss isn't exactly a significant blow for the club as they look to secure Champions League qualification in the final weeks of the campaign, as Rafael has made only ten Premier League appearances - just six of those being starts - this season.