---
title: "Robin van Persie doubtful for derby"
canonical: "https://readmanutd.com/2015/04/04/robin-van-persie-doubtful-for-derby/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
section: "Man Utd News"
published: "2015-04-04T11:08:15Z"
modified: "2015-04-04T11:08:15Z"
---

# Robin van Persie doubtful for derby

**Robin van Persie is an unlikely candidate to lead the front line in the upcoming Manchester derby, as manager Louis van Gaal confirms he does not expect the striker to fit in time.**

The 31-year-old has currently missed five games after suffering an ankle injury during a 2-1 defeat at the hands of Swansea City in February, and also sat out of the fixture with Aston Villa.

With ten goals throughout the campaign, van Persie has received regular criticism for his lack of form – despite being the club’s second top scorer this season. With only club captain Wayne Rooney netting more, the Dutchman will be hoping to return to form in the coming weeks.

However, when asked about the possibility of returning when the Reds host Manchester City on Sunday 12th April, van Gaal commented: “I don’t think so. The process has to give me signals he is ready for that but I know that from my experience it is not like that.

Dependant on other results, van Gaal’s side could be sitting in second by Saturday evening, as they currently trail Arsenal and Manchester City by one and two points respectively. And with fixtures against the top three in the coming weeks, van Persie will be hoping to fire his time to success in the closing weeks as soon as possible.

When asked whether United could realistically aim for second place, van Gaal added: “Of course. I cannot deny that because we have Manchester City at home. We have the strongest record at home at home so it’s possible, but Manchester City is a top team so it shall not be easy.”

Robin van Persie is expected to remain on the sidelines alongside Chris Smalling, who is affected by illness, and James Wilson, hampered by a hamstring injury.