Paul Scholes expects an extremely difficult game against Stoke City in Saturday's English Premier League game.

United are four points behind leaders Chelsea, and will know nothing less than three points will do against Tony Pulis' side at Old Trafford.

United have been caught cold in the first half in a few games off late, even if they performed much better in the first period in their 3-0 win over Newcastle in the last Premier League game.

"Yes, they probably will be inspired by Tottenham, by the first 20 minutes especially," Scholes told United Review. "We can't let that happen again. Stoke have got some quality players now.

"They have had good players over the last couple of years, don't get me wrong, but I think they've stepped up even more now. It's a game we'll be hoping to win but it's one we know won't be easy."

Scholes also believes manager Tony Pulis deserves special praise for the way he has kept Stoke progressing year after year in a tough competition like the Premier League.

"It's a credit to him, to his players and his staff," Scholes added. "I think in the first year or two after a club is promoted it's always about survival. But now he's taken Stoke up to a level where we just don't expect them to be down struggling near the bottom these days.

"I don't think anybody expects that with the quality of players they've brought in. They're more likely to be at least a top ten side, maybe even top six or seven. That's how far they've come."

Meanwhile, Anderson has said he is committed to life at United, and wants to be the best player he can be.

"I've been here for five years and I'm very happy here," he told the club's official website. "Sometimes I have had difficult moments at the club, but I've always got through those moments and everyone has always helped me - the manager, my team-mates, the staff and the fans.

"I know this is the best club for me.

"I feel confident and I feel very happy in my life. My family is good and I hope my injuries are now behind me.

"I'm 24 now and I've learnt a lot in the last few years, and I understand that to do well in my career, I have to look after myself and train hard. That is my aim."