Sir Alex Ferguson has confirmed that he will hand Brazilian midfielder Anderson a role from the beginning during Manchester United's home encounter against West Ham United on Wednesday night.

The 24-year-old came off the bench against Queens Park Rangers at the weekend and has received praise from Ferguson for turning the game in his team's favour at Old Trafford.

"I thought Ando won the game for us," the Scottish manager told MUTV. "I thought his performance was outstanding. He took the game by the scruff of the neck and he was so positive and determined in his play that he picks himself on Wednesday."

Ferguson went on to confirm that both Antonio Valencia and Nani are unlikely to be fit for the visit of West Ham, but two of his young defenders are available.

"We'll see what Antonio is like today and tomorrow. Nani is still going to be out [but] Chris Smalling and Phil Jones were on the bench on Saturday and they're available," he added.

"It's good to have them as back-up and in the back four things are much healthier. We've got plenty of options in the midfield and up front."

The Red Devils are currently top of the Premier League table.