Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal says Robin van Persie could be fit for their clash against Chelsea.

The Dutch striker suffered an ankle injury during the 2-1 defeat to Swansea City on February 21, and has not featured since.

"This is the first week he has trained with us, with the first team, but maybe we have to think about him," he told MUTV.

Van Persie's potential inclusion provides little comfort for United, however, as Van Gaal faces a defensive crisis ahead of their visit to Stamford Bridge.

Marcos Rojo, Phil Jones, Daley Blind and Michael Carrick will all be missing, while Jonny Evans is still suspended.