Manchester United full-back Rafael da Silva has expressed his delight at the way that the last 12 months have worked out for him.

Since joining the Red Devils in 2008, the Brazilian international had found himself on the fringes of the starting lineup at Old Trafford.

However, this season no player has started more matches than the 22-year-old.

"It's been a great year for me. I feel like I have grown up a lot and that I am maturing. My daughter was born this year which has helped me a lot too," he told the club's official website. "On the pitch I have been able to play a lot of games. So I've had a lot of good moments not just in football but in life this year.

"Playing games week in, week out helps you feel more comfortable and confident on the pitch and I'm pleased I've been able to do that this season.

"I feel more experienced and like I am growing as a player and a person. I was only 18 when I first came here, I was just a boy. Some people may think I am still young and still a boy but now I feel like I am a man."

Rafael has made 20 appearance so far this campaign.