Elegant and composed in possession but full of energy, Rodrigo Possebon is an archetypal box-to-box midfielder.

He joined United in January 2008 from Brazil's Sporting Club Internacional and was immediately handed a senior squad number (34, although he was later registered as 35 for the 2008/09 season).

Possebon's path to Old Trafford was greatly facilitated by his father's Italian heritage, giving the youngster an Italian passport and negating the need for a work permit.

A fluent English-speaker, he quickly assimilated to life in England and made his debut for

the Reserves in a 2-0 Manchester Senior Cup win over Manchester City in February 2008.

The youngster's neat performance carried some promise, leading Academy Manager Brian McClair to admit: "It looks as if he's got quite a bit of talent."

Possebon excelled on his non-competitve debut for the first team in July 2008, helping United to victory over the Kaizer Chiefs in the Vodacom Challenge final in South Africa following a late call-up to the squad. "Rodrigo used the ball well and I think the lad has got a chance," commented Sir Alex afterwards.

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