Fabio set to spend loan deal at Portugal next season.

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has confirmed full-back Fabio will spend next season on loan, probably in Portugal.

Benfica have been stated as one possible destination for the 21-year-old twin brother of Rafael, although Ferguson has revealed he has received a number of inquiries.

"Yes, we will put him out on loan, possibly to Portugal next season," said the United manager.

"It's the best thing for him because the boy is going to be a very good player.

"He is not as strong as his brother but there are now signs that is becoming a bit better."

Fabio did start last campaign's Champions League final defeat to Spanish giants Barcelona at Wembley and was also in the starting line-up for this team's Barclays Premier League opener at West Bromwich Albion.

But, his appearances have become gradually more limited and Fabio's only Premier League appearance since November came as a second-half substitute in the five-goal hammering of Wolverhampton last month.

"It would have been difficult for anyone as second choice because Patrice Evra has been such a consistent performer over the last five years," said the Scott.

"His brother has proved by getting consistent games his form has improved each time.

"A year out at a good level playing every week will make him a real top player for us."

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Sir Bobby Charlton credits Sir Alex for United lead

Manchester United legend Sir Bobby Charlton believes the team's return to the top of the table is down to Sir Alex Ferguson's influence.

The Red Devils have a five point lead over city rivals Manchester City in the Premier League title race, but their pole position in the league table was only established in recent weeks, having chased the Blues for most of the season.


Nonetheless, United now stand a good chance of retaining the league title and Sir Bobby credits the feat to the Scot’s ability to lift his charges when the chips are down.

"At the start of every campaign you want to avoid injuries and suspensions, and United have had such incredible misfortune with injuries that it's really staggering to be in the position we're in." he wrote in a column for the United Review.

"There's been so much said about Alex - especially this season, with him passing his 25th anniversary with the club - that it's hard to add anything new. He's just marvellous, and the way he lifts everyone around him is incredible."

Citing the 6-1 hammering at the hands of their neighbors, the former Red Devil man believes it takes a manager of extraordinary influence to have led the team from that terrifying loss to where they are now.

"The best example of that is in the reaction to City's 6-1 win at Old Trafford earlier this season. It shocked everybody associated with the club and it's certainly something you hope will never happen again." Charlton said.

"There's a part of you that would like to set the record straight with a similar win one day. But to come back from that result so strongly speaks volumes for how influential he is."

Manchester United host mercy side Everton at Old Trafford for their Premier League game this Sunday.

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