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Manchester United pulled off a transfer coup that surprised the football world by signing Anderson from FC Porto in July 2007, but the Brazilian failed to live up to his potential in his first few years at Old Trafford.

An attacking midfielder, who can play in a variety of positions, including left-back, he was bought to add versatility to Manchester United's attack; yet, despite winning the Premier League and Champions League in his second season, he failed to secure a first-team place.

Hailing from the same town and same first club as Ronaldinho, Anderson was born in Porto Alegre and began his career at Gremio, where he came through the youth team.

He only made five appearances for his hometown club before he was snapped up Portugese club Porto, making his debut for them in March 2006 and helping them secure their domestic title that season.

His 2006-07 season, which began with him impressing in a pre-season match against Manchester United, was hampered by a broken leg but he managed to appear in 15 games, scoring two goals, again picking up a league-winners' medal.

He joined United in a deal believed to be around £17m, and he secured a work permit to complete the move on July 2, 2007. Soon after, he starred for his country at the FIFA U-17 World Cup, winning the Golden Ball award for player of the tournament.

His full debut came for his country in the Copa America of 2007, when he came on as sub against Mexico and he made his United debut in a 1-0 victory over Sunderland in September 2007.

An important squad player for United as they took the European double in 2008, he built up a good record from the spot and scored in the Champions League final penalty shootout and also hit the winner in the 2009 Carling Cup final shootout too.

Reports at the start of the 2009-10 season suggested that Anderson was unhappy with the amount of playing time he was getting, but the player denied the speculation and committed his future to the club.