Rafael to miss Man Utd FA Cup tie against Southampton
Manchester United right-back Rafael will miss Saturday's FA Cup tie with Southampton after being taken off on a stretcher at Blackpool with concussion.
The Brazilian, who collided with Marlon Harewood in the second half of United's 3-2 win on Tuesday, went to hospital for X-rays. Rafael, 20, was later released and returned to Manchester with the team.
"It's a straightforward one. He has concussion and will miss Saturday's game," said manager Sir Alex Ferguson.
Rafael's injury was the main reason 10 minutes of added time were played at Blackpool where United came from 2-0 down to secure victory with two goals from Dimitar Berbatov and one by Javier Hernandez.
As is the case with concussion injuries, the defender will be given a break from physical contact before he resumes training.
Rafael had only just returned from a one-game suspension following his red card against Tottenham Hotspur at White Hart Lane on 16 January.
He has been a key member of a Manchester United side who have only lost once in all competitions - a 4-0 defeat by West Ham United in the Carling Cup - and he has played 20 times this season.
Posted by Ahmed Azleem
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