Manchester United midfielder Anderson has revealed his frustration at the stop-start nature of his Old Trafford career.
The Brazil international joined the Red Devils from Porto in 2007 with a reputation as one of the brightest young talents in world football.
However, the 24-year-old has failed to develop into the star player many predicted he would become, with his start against Reading in the FA Cup on Monday just his 12th this season.
Anderson, who recently revealed that he has tried to leave the club many times, noted that injuries have been a large contributor to his sporadic outings, but says the situation is “sad”.
He told the Independent: “When I take two steps forward I seem to take three back.
“It is sad but I have to do my job. I need to play games and not to have any injuries.
“I have had some problems. But when I don’t have these problems I know my quality. I know I can play.”
Anderson came on for six minutes in the 1-1 draw against Real Madrid last Wednesday and with Jones already ruled out of the weekend trip to bottom-of-the-table QPR, the Brazilian is hoping a spot may open up for the game on Saturday.
He added: “The boss can change it all the time. That is the way it should be at Manchester United.
“But this is Manchester United. All the players want to play, me and others.”
