Manchester United Injury Update: Anderson to Spend Weeks on the Sideline

After what can only be described as an enthralling 4-3 victory over Reading in the Barclays Premier League, Sir Alex Ferguson's Red Devils have been dealt news that they will be without Brazilian midfielder Anderson for a number of weeks.

According to an interview conducted on MUTV (via the Manchester United website), United manager Sir Alex Ferguson confirmed that Anderson, who came off injured before halftime, will not feature in the next few matches, saying: "It's a hamstring unfortunately. He'll [Anderson] be out for a few weeks, He's been playing really well and scored a great goal today. I'm very disappointed for him."

The injury comes after both Nani and Antonio Valencia were ruled out of the side that traveled to the Madejski Stadium on Saturday. 

The central midfielder has long been considered a player with immense talent, and despite not yet establishing himself as a regular first-team starter in Ferguson's squad, he has featured heavily off the bench this season. 

Thus far (2012-13), Anderson has appeared 14 times for United in all competitions. He has netted on two separate occasions this season, including Manchester's opener against Reading on the weekend. 

With United's midweek Champions League clash against CFR Cluj not having any impact on them qualifying for the Round of 16, Ferguson has been given the luxury of resting his players ahead of their showdown with Manchester City next weekend. Anderson isn't expected to feature in the clash.

The victory away to Reading sees United jump three points clear of their crosstown rivals—who could only manage a 1-1 draw against Everton.