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Louis van Gaal has challenged Anderson to get fit if he wants to save his United career.

The Brazilian has not played since August and with his contract up in the summer he is unlikely to extend his stay at Old Trafford.

With Michael Carrick, Ander Herrera, Marouane Fellaini, Daley Blind and Darren Fletcher ahead of him in the midfield pecking order, the chances of Anderson appearing in a red shirt again are slim.

However, Van Gaal has told the 26-year-old, whose fitness has been ridiculed during his seven-and-a-half years at the club, to prove himself.

"He’s now coming back," Van Gaal said.

"He was injured but he’s training now with the team. I cannot say what had happened last year but in my four months here, he’s had a lot of injuries.

"So I cannot judge him but when he trains he trains at a good level. He’s not always fit and that is more his problem now.

"I can’t pick him now because you have to be fit. For the first three months the culture of a trainer is fitness. That is the smallest thing you can demand. Professional league fitness. Fitness is the most important thing. First you have to show your fitness. Not for just one day but for several weeks."