Rafael made his debut for United at the start of the season

Manchester United full-back Rafael has been ruled out for up to a month with a fractured ankle.

The 18-year-old Brazilian, who will now miss Sunday's Carling Cup final, picked up the injury in last week's 2-1 win over Blackburn.

"He's out for a month with a hairline fracture of his ankle," United boss Sir Alex Ferguson told the club website.

"It's a blow because he's been playing in all the cup games and he's done so well. He deserves to be in the final."

606: DEBATE Give your thoughts on Man Utd's injury problems

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