Radamel Falcao's future at Manchester United hangs in the balance following Louis van Gaal's decision to not start the striker in the 3-0 win over Liverpool yesterday.
The Colombian ace has struggled to settle since completing his loan switch to Old Trafford thanks to a troublesome calf injury. That has restricted him to just three Premier League starts, while he has managed just one goal so far.
Fitness
He was back to full fitness for the showdown against Liverpool at Old Trafford, but even though Van Gaal confirmed he was fit, the former Atletico Madrid forward was left out in favour of youngster James Wilson.
Manchester United have the option of making Falcao's move permanent at the end of the season for just over £43 million, but according to the Daily Telegraph that is becoming increasingly unlikely. The striker still has time to turn things around and prove his worth, but as things stand Manchester United are erring on the side of caution.
Selection
Although Van Gaal explained that he selected Wilson because of his speed, it is unlikely that the powers that be at Old Trafford will be willing to fork out such a sizeable amount of cash for a player who isn't able to feature in the big games and is, as things stand, a fourth choice striker.
Along with the calf injury which has blighted his season, it has also been claimed that he is still feeling the after-effects of the knee injury which wrecked his chances of appearing at the World Cup.
Return
He returned to action for Monaco in August which now appears to have been too soon, while reports earlier this season suggested he was still icing his knee after every training session to help reduce the swelling he was suffering.
For now Manchester United will reserve making a decision, but if the season were to end tomorrow, there appears to be little doubt that Falcao, who earns around £265,000-per-week, wouldn't be at Old Trafford next term.
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