Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has hinted Anderson has struggled with the expectations placed on him when he first joined.

Described as anything from the next Ronaldinho to a future world footballer of the year, Anderson joined United three years ago.

"The reports we were getting were saying that he was the best young player in the world," said Ferguson. "At the time, I was saying, 'For God's sake, let's calm down a bit here.' I knew he had real potential, but I didn't want to put labels on him like that."

"Anderson has been absolutely brilliant in the last three games," said Ferguson. "He has been tremendous. He offers something different from the other midfield players we have got.

"He has tremendous pace, can beat a man and is always decisive in his passing."