Manchester United midfielder Anderson tells David Moyes: 'I need to play'

The midfielder has been linked with a move away in January in search of regular football

Anderson with Manchester United manager David Moyes (GETTY IMAGES)

Manchester United midfielder Anderson is happy to play the waiting game just now - but knows he cannot hang around forever to prove he is worthy of a place at Old Trafford.

After an encouraging start to his United career following a move from FC Porto in 2007, picking up Champions League and Premier League medals in his debut campaign, Anderson's time at the club has been blighted by injury.

With well-voiced concerns over his weight, the 25-year-old has struggled to hold down a regular starting slot.

He has made only five appearances in total this term, and just one since starting the shock home defeat by West Brom on September 28.

That statistic alone seems to indicate new manager David Moyes has little faith in the Brazilian.

However, despite reports of a loan deal to Fulham being lined up in January, with a contract that runs to 2015, Anderson is not ready to give up on his United career just yet.

"Every single player wants to play every game," he told the Manchester Evening News.

"I am the same as all the rest.

"I need to play. I am 25 and cannot stay one more year and not play. But you cannot demand that.

"I am not unhappy. You have to be patient and when you do get your chance, you have to do well."

With Michael Carrick and Phil Jones set to miss Sunday's Premier League trip to Cardiff, next week's Champions League encounter with Bayer Leverkusen and, in the former man's case, plenty of matches beyond that, and Marouane Fellaini troubled by a wrist injury, if Anderson does not make an impression now, it surely will not happen at all.

He has done little to impress Moyes so far, although he insists there are no issues with Sir Alex Ferguson's successor.

"It is good with the new manager," said Anderson.

"He's new and it is completely different.

"I have not spoken to him about my situation. We just have to help him be successful."

PA