Sir Alex Ferguson full of praise for Manchester United’s performance
A goal by Anderson in Tuesday’s game against Valencia was what allowed Manchester United an easy escape from facing mighty teams like Barcelona and Real Madrid in the next round of the Champions League. His was the only goal from Manchester United that night.
And it was also the Brazilian midfielder’s second goal ever since arriving in England. During his 109 matches in England, he had scored only one goal before this, at Old Trafford.
While naturally thrilled with the timing of Anderson’s goal – which came when Manchester United were down 0-1 in the match – Ferguson also insists that Anderson should score more.
"I was pleased for Anderson, it was great for him to get a goal, and he took it well, but he should get more, yes," said United manager Alex Ferguson.
"He's a terrific talent the boy, great pace and power,” Ferguson said. “Such a strong boy and he should get more, but we are pleased with him and pleased with his goal tonight.”
Anderson’s goal against Valencia came in the second half of the game, when Valencia were in the lead (thanks to a goal by Pablo Hernandez in the first half) and Man Utd players and fans alike were very down-spirited.
"The biggest frustration was that we didn't put the goals in,” said Ferguson. “[Dimitar Berbatov could have got another five and we had some real good chances."
The Red Devils’ manager was full of praise, however, for the partnership of Wayne Rooney and Berbatov.
"But there were flashes there alright,” he said. “Flashes of Wayne's partnership with Berba, and signs that he is getting his sharpness back. He was outstanding tonight, and I think Wayne is getting there quick. His distribution and leading off the line was terrific, some of his movements and passing was terrific and I was really pleased with him and Berba, even if we didn't get the goals this time."
Meanwhile, United suffered a setback when Rio Ferdinand had to walk off the five minutes into the second half due to discomfort in his hamstring. "He felt it at half time but wanted to try it, in the second half,” said Ferguson. “He still felt it and so we got him off quick because we didn't want to take any risks before the game next week."
But the manager is confident that Ferdinand will be fit in time for Monday’s game against top-of-league team Arsenal. "Rio has a tight hamstring, but I'm sure he'll be okay for next Monday. We didn't want to take any chances, that’s all," he said.
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