Anderson: Free To Play …
Mail: Brazil midfielder Anderson was cleared to launch his Old Trafford career with immediate effect yesterday in another major boost for Manchester United’s title defence.
There were fears the £18million teenage sensation could be heading for a season of frustration after the Home Office blocked his work permit application due to a lack of international caps.
The permit was granted on appeal after Old Trafford chiefs based their case on the 19-year-old’s exceptional talent and recruited influential names to act as expert witnesses. Sportsmail understands United contacted Portugal boss Phil Scolari, Anderson’s one-time Porto team-mate Benni McCarthy and Porto’s coach Jesualdo Ferreira, and that all three submitted letters to the panel endorsing the attacking midfielder’s rich promise.
The deputation from Old Trafford also argued that Anderson, who made his full international debut against Mexico in the Copa America earlier this week, would have had more Brazil caps but for his age. It means Anderson, signed along with Portugal Under-21 winger Nani last month, can link up with Sir Alex Ferguson’s squad after the Copa America tournament and push for a starting place in an attacking United line-up.
Speaking prior to Brazil’s latest campaign, Anderson said: “To join United at 19 is incredible. Everything will be different in England, but I am certain I will adjust quickly to life in new surroundings. I am proud and so are my family. For me, it seems like a dream come true.”
As Wayne Rooney savoured the prospect of Anderson and Nani laying on even more chances for him next season, he took delivery of a new squad number.
Not any old number, either, but the No 10 made famous by undisputed king of Old Trafford Denis Law during a golden era in the 1960s.
“When I was offered the chance to wear the No 10 shirt, I jumped at it,” he said. “Some of the game’s greatest players have become legends wearing No 10, none more so than Denis. He was crowned king of the Stretford End during his time at the club, and it is a great honour for me to wear a shirt that has such history behind it.”
