Anderson

8. Anderson

Birthdate:	13 Apr 1988
Birthplace:	Porto Alegre, Brazil
Position:	Midfielder
Appearances	179
Goals Scored	9
Joined United:	01 Jul 2007
United Debut:	01 Sept 2007 v Sunderland (H)
International:	Brazil

 

When Anderson arrived at Old Trafford from FC Porto in summer 2007 he wasn't exactly a household name. But after a wondrous debut season the Brazilian's talents became well known not just in Manchester, but around the world.
The early Ronaldinho comparisons were inevitable given both players began their careers at Brazilian side Gremio, who Anderson Luis de Abreu Oliveira (to give his full name) joined at the age of just five.

But that’s really where the similarities end. Where Ronaldinho is all flicks and flamboyance, Anderson (or Ando as he is known to his team-mates) is bustling with energy and possesses

an eye for a defence-splitting pass. He has skill and technical ability in abundance, but his preference for midfield combat could bring you to question his Brazilian roots (more so if you spotted his dancing after lifting the UEFA Champions League trophy in May 2008!)

At Gremio, Anderson made his first appearance aged just 16. He is most fondly remembered for a wonder goal against Nautico in November 2005, which earned a 1-0 win and promotion back to the top flight. He also earned a reputation internationally, shining with Brazil at the 2005 U17 World Cup, where he won the Adidas Golden Ball for most valuable player.