Anderson's joy at double

Brazilian midfielder now targets regular first-team spot

By Francisco Acedo   Last updated: 25th May 2008

Anderson's joy at double

Anderson: Aiming to improve

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Anderson admits he never envisaged winning the Premier League and UEFA Champions League in his debut season at Manchester United.

The Brazilian youngster was a big-money signing from Porto last summer and impressed when selected in midfield.

He scored in the penalty shoot-out win over Chelsea in Wednesday's UEFA Champions League final and also made 24 appearances as United retained their domestic title.

The 20-year-old is determined to build on his first season at Old Trafford and is hoping for a regular spot in Sir Alex Ferguson's side next term.

Kings

"The season was enormous for me," Anderson told the Brazilian press. "I never believed I would play in so many matches and win the two titles.

"To be a European champion so young is not easy for a man like me. Now I need to continue working for next season to improve my level in this club.

"Manchester United is the best club in the world and I want to be in the XI in every match. We are the kings in Europe and England without doubt."

Anderson was a late substitute against Chelsea and admits there was some tension before he scored his sudden-death penalty in Moscow.

Calm

He added: "My mission in the final was to score the penalty and I have fulfilled it.

"It was not easy because at that moment the tension on the pitch was enormous. But I am a calm player and I was convinced that my shot would beat Cech.

"Cristiano Ronaldo was very hurt after missing his penalty.

"I always had confidence in (Edwin) Van der Sar because in training he does a lot of work on penalties. I was optimistic and finally our keeper was a hero against Anelka."