RVP Set For Ankle Assessment

Louis van Gaal has confirmed Robin van Persie was substituted during Manchester United’s 1-0 defeat to Southampton because he had picked up an ankle injury.

The Dutch forward was replaced by Ander Herrera in the 60th minute of Sunday’s disappointing home reversal and headed straight for the tunnel in obvious discomfort.

At the end of his post-match press conference, van Gaal told reporters van Persie had an ankle problem that would be assessed further on Monday.

Luke Shaw and Angel Di Maria also exited the action midway through the second half, prompting fears they could have aggravated previous injuries. But van Gaal was quick to provide a positive update on both players.

"Shaw was not injured but he needs match rhythm," he explained. "Also Di Maria, he is not injured but he needs match rhythm. That is why I had to change.

"Of course, we have players who are coming back but then we also need match rhythm. It is not so simple to play in the Premier League, so I have to adapt to the circumstances."