"Full-backs have an important role, particularly at United, in terms of the way we attack and the way in which there's a transition from defence through our full-backs to attack.
"We have always set up play and been part of the extra-man situation and we always play with width.
"The way you see guys like Patrice Evra and Rafael Da Silva attacking, they are more like wingers who can defend - they aren't just full-backs any more.
"The way in which the modern full-back like Rafael, his brother Fabio and Patrice play is fantastic to watch. Before I got injured a couple of years ago you'd say I was running forward nearly all the time during the game.
"Don't get me wrong - I don't do that in the same eye-catching way as they do, but you understand the changes and development in the game and the way I've had to adapt."