Anderson handed Brazil boost

Reds midfielder Anderson has been called up to Brazil’s squad for February’s international friendly against the Republic of Ireland.

The 19-year-old has been in superb form in his first season with Sir Alex Ferguson’s side, and has played his way into the plans of Brazil manager Dunga.

The 22-man squad to play in Dublin is comprised largely of young talents, with Dunga keen to give youth a chance ahead of this summer’s Olympic Games.

"I named players of Olympic age before," he said. "It's important for them to gain experience in the national team environment.

"The upcoming games will be useful to keep watching the men who can play in Beijing."

Anderson has not featured for Brazil since a brief cameo at last summer’s triumphant Copa America campaign.