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'After four years Anderson still couldn't speak English'

Anderson is set to move back to his first club Gremio after several poor years © Getty Images

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The failure of Manchester United midfielder Anderson to develop from a teen prodigy into a world-class performer has always been something of a mystery.

Despite announcing himself as one of the most promising young stars in world football, Anderson has never fulfilled his potential at Old Trafford.

But former team-mate Wes Brown has suggested a reason for Anderson's failure in England, claiming that the Brazilian was so "stupid" that he couldn't speak English after four years at the club.

Asked by Sunderland's YouTube channel who was the least intelligent player he'd ever played with, Brown joked: "Not going to say anyone at Sunderland because that will get back.

"I'd go Anderson. Just because when I was with him he was there for four years and I honestly still don't think he can speak English."

Anderson was signed by Sir Alex Ferguson for £27million in 2007 as the man to replace Paul Scholes, but despite winning the Champions League in his first season, never blossomed into a star.

He is now set to return to his first club Gremio on a free transfer, after making just one start for United this season, in the League Cup defeat by MK Dons.

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