Manchester United full-back Rafael could return to the Red Devils' starting lineup within the next few weeks.

The 21-year-old, who underwent surgery on his shoulder, has been sidelined since August, but boss Sir Alex Ferguson has hinted that a return is edging nearer.

"Rafael has been training for over a week," said Ferguson. "It was a big operation on his shoulder and we hope we can maybe fit a game in for him - maybe the next reserve game.

"He's coming along fine, there has been no setback and he has been training every day."

The Premier League champions take on Otelul Galati at Old Trafford in the Champions League Group C clash on Wednesday.