Anderson is set to miss the start of the new season after being named in Brazil's squad for the Beijing Olympics.

The United midfielder is part of an 18-man squad which travels to China, with the 16-team football event taking place between August 6-23.

Should Brazil make their expected progression through to the latter stages, that schedule could rule Anderson out of the Community Shield, as well as the Reds' opening two Premier League games against Newcastle and Portsmouth.

The 19-year-old midfielder, a revelation in his first season at Old Trafford, could return to the Reds' fold in time for the UEFA Super Cup final against Zenit St Petersburg on August 29.

Anderson is joined by Liverpool's Lucas Leiva and new Manchester City striker Jo in the 18-man party. Brazil have been drawn alongside China, New Zealand and Belgium in Group C.