Manchester United injury news: Robin van Persie to miss only QPR clash, hands Radamel Falcao lifeline

Manchester United have been handed a massive boost as star striker Robin van Persie is closing in on his return from injury, according to the Daily Mail.

The Dutch international was replaced in the second half during United's 1-0 home defeat to Southampton. Red Devils manager Louis van Gaal confirmed his compatriot had picked up an ankle injury, which saw him miss the Ballon d'Or Gala in Zurich, where he was shortlisted for the goal of the year award.

The former Barcelona manager takes his men to Loftus Road as the 20-times English champions take on Queens Park Rangers in the Premier League clash on Saturday.

The test results have shown there is no serious concern, but the former Arsenal star will miss United's upcoming league clash against QPR. With Van Persie set to be out of action for United's trip to the capital, it should be a huge relief for Radamel Falcao.

The Colombian international was left out of the squad by Van Gaal during United's defeat against the Saints at Old Trafford. His omission has raised questions over Falcao's future at the club, who is on a season-long loan from AS Monaco.

Earlier reports suggested that the striker's loan move will not be made permanent in the summer. Former Colombian international and ex-Newcastle United star Tino Asprilla had told IBTimes UK that Falcao's relationship with Van Gaal is broken and the striker could leave Old Trafford.

Falcao's agent Jorge Mendes remains confident that his client will be able to join a top club, if United fail to make his transfer permanent.

With Van Persie out of action for the QPR clash, Falcao is likely to start on Saturday and the game at Loftus Road will be crucial for the former Atletico Madrid star to prove his worth.

After the defeat against Southampton, United dropped to fourth place as the South Coast club took the third spot. Van Gaal will be desperate to bounce back against QPR and the last time these two teams faced each other saw Red Devils seal three points after a comfortable 4-0 victory at Old Trafford.