Brazilian Star

He arrived with the billing: the ‘new Ronaldinho’. But upon his arrival at Old Trafford from FC Porto in summer 2007 most Reds were left asking: ‘Anderson who?’

After a wondrous debut season the Brazilian's talents are well known not just in Manchester, but around the world. The Ronaldinho comparisons are 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 is bustling with energyand 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 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 shone with Brazil at the 2005 U17 World Cup, where he won the Adidas Golden Ball for mostvaluable player.

Porto soon came knocking in January 2006, where he won the Portuguese Championship in 2005/06 and 2006/07, although his progress was hampered by a broken leg causing him to miss much of the 06/07 campaign.

Sir Alex couldn’t quite believe the reports coming back from his scouts, who rated the teenager as among the best prospects in the world. Upon further investigation, the Reds realised this was a player not to miss out on, and moved quickly to stave off interest from Barcelona in reported £18million deal.

Anderson wasn’t involved in the earlymatches of United's 2007/08 campaign, but he soon made up for it. His competitive debut at Sunderland caught the eye before another fine display against Wigan (he claimed to be the best player on the pitch) highlighted his true potential.

Most exciting is his penchant for the big games – commanding performances against Steven Gerrard and Cesc Fabregas point to an influential future - and if he can add goals to his game he could be the successor to Paul Scholes' throne. He’s set a standard and big things are expected of him, but it’s safe to say ‘Anderson’ and ‘who?’ will not come packaged in the same sentence again.