Radamel Falcao uncertain over Manchester United future

Radamel Falcao has admitted his long-term Manchester United future is uncertain, with it depending on how much he plays and if the club want him to stay.

The Colombian is on a season’s loan from Monaco at a total cost of £16m and has been hampered by injury and uneven form. In October he suffered a muscle problem then a separate calf complaint and has been limited to only three Premier League starts and one goal since joining in September.

Louis van Gaal declared him fit to start before Sunday’s 3-0 win over Liverpool but he was limited to a 12-minute substitute appearance, replacing Wayne Rooney.

United have an option to buy Falcao permanently next summer but are weighing up his form and fitness. He has suffered three severe knee injuries, the last of which occurred in January and ruled him out of the World Cup.

Asked if he would like to sign permanently, Falcao admitted to being unsure whether Van Gaal wants him to stay. “From my point of view, yes, but obviously I have to analyse the situation, see if I play more and see what decision the board takes,” he said. “But from my point of view, I really want to stay.”

Falcao is not happy at playing so little though he pointed out any player wants maximum game time. “Every footballer wants to play, no one is happy when they are not playing, when they are on the bench, but whenever I am given the opportunity, whether it be for five, 10, 20 or 90 minutes, I have to give my best,” he said.

He has talked to Van Gaal about his playing more. “We talk a lot, the coach and I. He has a philosophy that I respect. I have had an injury, and I have had to wait for the opportunity to play,” he said.

Credit: Jamie Jackson/Guardian