Abby Brammell

Hammer blow! Anderson ruptured his cruciate ligament in United's win over West Ham


Manchester United midfielder Anderson will to fly Portugal in a fortnight for an operation to repair the ruptured cruciate ligament which has ruled him out for the remainder of the season.

The Brazil international suffered the injury during United's 3-0 win over West Ham on Tuesday.

Anderson was making his first appearance since the Carling Cup tie at Manchester City last month when he crumpled in agony during the first half at Old Trafford.

It was immediately obvious there was a serious problem and although the former Porto star tried to continue, he was forced to abandon that plan within minutes.
Anderson went for a scan on Wednesday, with Sir Alex Ferguson confirming the season-ending injury.

'The real bad news is that Anderson has a cruciate knee injury,' said the United boss. 'He will be out for the rest of the season. It is a bad blow.'

Prior to the game against West Ham, Anderson revealed he had spent time in Brazil considering his future at Old Trafford, after failing to secure a regular place in the United side.


Six-month lay-off: Anderson will not feature in this summer's World Cup


But Ferguson had the player in mind for a starting spot in the Champions League tie with AC Milan at Old Trafford on March 10, when Michael Carrick will be suspended.

Now, both options are ruled out, with Ferguson hoping Anderson is back for the start of next season.

'He was looking forward to the match on Tuesday and he was showing great energy to do well,' reflected Ferguson.

'It is a bit of a blow to us, particularly with the AC Milan game coming up because Michael Carrick is suspended.


Suspended: Carrick will miss the second leg after he was sent off in the San Siro


'It is strange, when you see cruciate injuries it is usually something simple. He stretched out for the ball and his knee just popped.

'We have assessed the situation and know he needs the operation. That will be done in two weeks' time in Portugal once the swelling has gone down. Sometimes we have sent them to Dr Steadman in Colorado. In this instance he is comfortable with the surgeon he has dealt with in Portugal in the past.

'He will be out for six months and hopefully that should have him about right for the new season.'


source: dailymail