Fabio signed for Manchester United along with his twin brother Rafael in January 2008 and after initially struggling with injuries, he has become a mainstay in the first-team set-up at Old Trafford, with an intriguing sibling battle for Sir Alex Ferguson's right-back berth likely to develop in 2011-12.

Upon the Da Silvas' arrival it was Fabio - considered to be a more well-rounded and composed player than his brother - who was expected to make his senior breakthrough first. But, following an excellent performance on his debut in a pre-season friendly against Peterborough, the Brazilian was dealt a major blow as shoulder surgery kept him out for several months.

In that time Rafael became a more regular fixture in the first-team squad, while Fabio was made to work much harder for his place - turning out time and again for United's Reserve team, often starring for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side as a left-midfielder. His first-team debut came in an FA Cup clash with Spurs, though he was forced off with injury (something that also happened on his Champions League debut).

Injuries and the excellent form of his brother prevented Fabio from featuring regularly in 2009-10 but the 2010-11 season was a breakthrough one for the Brazilian, as he eventually displaced Rafael and saw off the challenge of John O'Shea to feature in a number of crucial games in the run-in and end the campaign as first-choice right-back. He has played in defence, midfield and down both wings for United and his versatility promises to be a real asset for the club for years to come.

Strengths: Pacy, composed on the ball and accomplished going forward. Fabio is also two-footed and his athleticism means he is at ease chasing up and down either flank.

Weaknesses: Has been worryingly injury prone for someone so young, leading to him playing only half as many first-team games for United as his brother. Tackling can be a little erratic at times.

Career high: Winning his first Premier League title after emerging as a regular at the end of the 2010-11 season and subsequently being selected to start ahead of more experienced team-mates in the Champions League final against Barcelona.

Career low: Being sent-off against Wolves for a clumsy tackle on Michael Kightly in what was only his fourth start for the club.

Style: Marauding full-back very much in the Brazilian mould, though he possesses the sort of defensive nous lacking in many of his compatriots.

Quotes: "Fabio is a mirror image of Rafael in the way that he plays. He's a fantastic player and the lads really enjoy having him in the team. He's enthusiastic, he's willing to learn and wanting to try new things. He's a breath of fresh air." Man Utd team-mate Rio Ferdinand, 2009.

Trivia: Fabio and Rafael's two goals each for Man Utd share a sibling symmetry of sorts; Fabio's strikes have come against Wigan away and Arsenal at home, while Rafael has netted against Arsenal at home and Wigan away.