Radamel Falcao Doubtful for Arsenal Clash as Colombian Team Doctor Claims Striker is Still Week Away from Recovery

Radamel Falcao remains a doubt for Manchester United's visit to Arsenal on Saturday after Colombia's national team doctor revealed the striker is still eight days away from being fully recovered.

Falcao, 28, has missed United's last three Premier League games with a calf problem and remained at United's Aon Training Complex during the international break to focus on his rehabilitation.

Manager Louis van Gaal indicated the Colombian international, who is on a season-long loan from Monaco, is likely to feature on the bench for the visit to the Emirates Stadium.

But Colombia's Carlos Ulloa has suggested Falcao may have to wait a little longer before making his return, telling Mi Seleccion: "He is ending his last phase of recovery, we expect that may be in eight days."

Falcao has not featured for United since their 2-2 draw with West Bromwich Albion on 20 October and has missed games against Chelsea, Manchester City and Crystal Palace.

The striker's recent absence has prompted fears over his long-term fitness after he missed six months of action with a knee injury in January.

But the Colombian international dismissed such suggestions last week, comments which were echoed by his national team boss Jose Pekerman who even claimed a return against Arsenal could not be ruled out.

"He's recovered very successfully. He's done everything perfectly. This is a small muscular injury, it is different to the knee injury before the World Cup," Pekerman recently told a press conference.

"He's in a good condition and could be ready for Arsenal. He hasn't even started yet. He will be one of the best players Manchester United have had and will break a lot of records in England."

United also face a nervous wait to learn the fitness of Luke Shaw, Angel di Maria and David de Gea who suffered knocks while on international duty but van Gaal is likely to have Rafael da Silva, Phil Jones and Jonny Evans back on the bench.