Man Utd boss Ferguson: Anderson needs regular first-team action

Sir Alex Ferguson has hinted that Manchester United midfielder Anderson is set to feature on a more regular basis after the Brazilian starred in their 5-4 loss to Chelsea.

The 24-year-old has started just one Premier League game for the Red Devils this season – a 3-2 victory over Fulham – as he continues to regain full fitness after a string of injuries.

Anderson created all three of United’s goals in normal time at Stamford Bridge before being replaced, and Ferguson intends to give the former Porto man more playing time.

“Anderson was the best player on the pitch [on Wednesday] until he tired,” said Ferguson. “He needs games now and hopefully we can give him them.”

The United manager also revealed Chris Smalling is nearing a return to first-team action and confirmed that Javier Hernández is in his thoughts for Saturday’s clash with Arsenal after scoring four goals in the club’s last three games.

“Chris Smalling is training with the first-team squad on the football side which is good news,” added Ferguson.

“He’s not ready for us yet but it’s still encouraging. We’ve got options. Hernández is in terrific form. He is improving all the time. The key to Hernández’s form is the decent rest he’s had in the summer.

Ferguson also believes the Gunners will provide a stern test at Old Trafford on Saturday, pointing to their improved defensive record in the Premier League this term.

“Every game against Arsenal is always a big one,” he added. “It won’t be any different tomorrow.

“They have proved defensively this year that they’re a stronger, more physical team. I watched them last week against QPR and it’ll be a hard game.”

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