Man United’s Ferguson: Carrick and Scholes keeping Anderson benched

Sir Alex Ferguson admits in-form Michael Carrick and Paul Scholes are keeping Brazil midfielder Anderson out of Manchester United’s first-team.

The 24-year-old has started just two games for the Red Devils this season as the former Porto star looks to re-establish himself as a regular at Old Trafford.

Anderson scored in United’s recent 2-1 victory over Newcastle United in the Capital One Cup – and although Ferguson insisted he is pleased with the Brazilian’s start to the campaign, he conceded that he is facing stiff competition for a spot in the Red Devils’ midfield.

“Anderson is a difficult one to leave out but I don’t think there’s been anything wrong with the form of Paul Scholes or Michael Carrick, which makes it difficult to involve other central midfielders when there’s always a desire to play with two wide players,” Ferguson told United’s website.

“Anderson has done nothing wrong. His pre-season form was terrific and he’s a top player, but I still think that Scholes is a great player.

“With Darren Fletcher, Tom Cleverley, Anderson and Nick Powell, it gives me a lot of different options.”

Anderson has scored eight goals in 148 appearances for United since completing a £20m switch from Porto to Old Trafford in 2007.

The Brazil international made a promising start to his Red Devils career but a series of injuries and a loss of form have seen the midfielder drop down the pecking order.

“This season is very important,” said Anderson. “I need to prove what I can do. I know the boss and my team-mates believe in me, I’ve just had bad luck. Hopefully I can get a run of playing, enjoy my football and help the team [win trophies].”