Manchester United midfielder Anderson believes that the club will struggle when Sir Alex Ferguson eventually retires.

The 24-year-old, who has struggled with injuries in recent seasons, has also claimed that Ferguson "is a father to all the players".

"Manchester United is Alex Ferguson. When he leaves, the club will lose 30-40%, so much depends on him," he told Grande Area.

"He is a father to all the players, a very respected person and when he retires the football world will really feel his loss.

"He always helped me and I have a great affection for him. He lives for training and always wants to know how his players and their families are."

Ferguson has won 12 Premier League titles, five FA Cups, four league Cups and two Champions League titles since taking the reins in 1986.