‘Versatile’ Fábio will shine at QPR next season, says Mark Hughes

Mark Hughes heaped praise on the “versatile” Fábio Da Silva after Queens Park Rangers confirmed the signing of the Manchester United defender on a season-long loan deal.

The 21-year-old has made 54 first-team appearances for the Red Devils in all competitions since moving to Old Trafford with his twin brother Rafael from Fluminense in 2008.

Fábio will link-up with QPR at pre-season training next Monday, and his new manager believes it is a brilliant chance for the defender to gain some more invaluable first-team experience in the English top flight.

“It’s a great opportunity for us to loan a good, young player, who has decent experience of playing for a top club like Manchester United,” Hughes told QPR’s website.

“He’s played a lot of senior games for United, so it shows the quality he’s got. I know they think very highly of him and we believe he has all the attributes to be a success here next season.

“First and foremost, he’s a good defender. He’s got great enthusiasm as well, and just like his brother, he’s a top professional.

“We can give him the games he’s craving at this stage of his career, so it benefits everybody.

“He’s very versatile – he can play left or right-back and he’s also been utilised in midfield by Sir Alex [Ferguson] in the past, so we know what we’re getting, and that’s a very good player.”

Fabio sees his temporary move to QPR as a chance to develop in the Premier League with the promise of regular football – the Brazil international struggled to break into Ferguson’s first-team plans last season.

“I’m so happy to be here,” he said. “This loan is so important for me in terms of my career. I want to play as many games as possible here. I want to play well and win games as well.

“It’s a good move for my career and for my confidence. Sir Alex Ferguson said that I’d enjoy it here and told me to play as many games as I can.”

“I know that QPR is a club with great history. I read about the history and that’s why I’m here. I also came here because I’m ambitious. I want to help QPR progress up the Premier League.

“Hopefully the fans will enjoy watching me in action, because I’ll do my best.”

Meanwhile, United have confirmed that Fabio’s brother Rafael has signed a new four-year deal with the 19-time English champions to keep him at Old Trafford until 2016.

“Rafael is one of the club’s brightest young prospects; he has no fear of playing and has great belief in himself,” Ferguson told United’s website.

“The boy has developed immensely since joining United, his energy and enthusiasm are a joy to watch. Rafael has all the attributes to become one of the best full-backs in the world and I am delighted he has signed a new contract.”