Anderson played for the first time since December 1 as Manchester United secured a 1-0 FA Cup replay win over West Ham United courtesy of a Wayne Rooney strike.
Rooney netted in the opening stages of the match for what proved to be the winning goal as United go through to face Martin Jol’s Fulham in the fourth round.
Javier Hernandez broke past the offside trap and rolled the ball across the box for the arriving Rooney to slide in for the goal.
Anderson ended a disappointing performance by making way for Michael Carrick after the hour mark as Sir Alex Ferguson looked to defend United’s slim lead.
Rooney had the chance to double his team’s lead shortly after but the former Everton striker could only shoot over the bar after a penalty was given against the Hammers for a handball.
Rafael also featured at right back, putting in a solid shift as United’s defence successfully kept out the West Ham attack.
