Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal says Robin van Persie may have to turn out for the U21s as he returns from injury.

The no-nonsense Dutchman has seen his side find their best form in recent weeks without Van Persie, producing two of their best performances of a mixed season to beat Tottenham and Liverpool.

Asked if RvP would have to turn out for the under-21 team he said: "That is possible, like the others.

"I have explained, he's still not in my group, so then he cannot play.

"I don't think he will be fit for the game against Manchester City. The process has to give me signals that he is ready for that.

"But I know that from my experience it is not like that. And everybody is fit. So I have to compare players also."