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Rafael da Silva back in Manchester United training

Rafael da Silva has returned to training as Manchester United's injury problems show signs of easing.

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The Brazilian full-back only played 45 minutes in the former Premier League champions' preseason tour of the United States because of a groin injury.

And he has missed their first four competitive games of the campaign but wrote on Instagram: "Back in training ready to help."

Rafael is expected to challenge Antonio Valencia for the right wing-back position in manager Louis van Gaal's 3-5-2 formation.

Van Gaal said United had the worst injury crises he had ever experienced in his 23-year managerial career when 10 players were sidelined for August's 0-0 draw with Burnley and an 11th, Marcos Rojo, was not eligible as he waited for a work permit.

Now the Argentina international is available and United have added two more signings, deadline day recruits Radamel Falcao and Daley Blind.

In addition, another summer recruit Ander Herrera revealed on Twitter that he is closing in on a return, writing: "Training hard and looking forward to this next game at Old Trafford."

United are also waiting to see if Luke Shaw will be fit to face QPR on Sunday after the England international left-back, who is yet to make his competitive debut, suffered a hamstring injury.

However, they received one blow when Phil Jones limped off in England's 2-0 win over Switzerland on Monday. The centre-back is being assessed on Tuesday.