Brazilian legend Carlos Alberto is convinced Manchester United midfielder Anderson can be the world's best - if he is played to his strengths. With United manager Sir Alex Ferguson hoping to rebuild his midfield as Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs near the end of their careers, Anderson is expected to live up to his price tag and early reputation.
Alberto is convinced he can do that - if United play to his strengths.
"In Brazil, we compared him to Ronaldinho because he is a very skilled player," he told the Manchester Evening News. "But over here, he seems to be playing more defensively and this is not the best way for him to play.
"I hope they change their ideas and give him a free role. Then he can start to show just how good he is.
"He has shown at times how good he can be but if Sir Alex gives him freedom to play, he is going to show that he can be one of the best players in the world.
"Any good Brazilian player can play here or in any other country. They only need to have some time because when they come over here they change their style and the tactics.
"If they are given a chance to get used to it they will prove that they are good players.
"The example is Anderson. He came from Brazil and they changed his position. It takes time but they can prove that they can play here."
