Van is still the man

Edwin van der Sar insists Robin van Persie has nothing to reproach himself for — despite not having scored for 10 games

Van Persie’s last goal was against Everton on February 10. Since then United have gobe out of the Champions League and FA Cup, and on Monday were beaten by Manchester City to see their lead at the top of the Premier League cut to 12 points.

Former United goalkeeper Van der Sar insists his fellow Dutchman need not be concerned.

"Robin is playing well," said Van der Sar. "All he is not doing is scoring goals. He is still one of the best players in the Premier League."

If there is any team Van Persie can feel confident about breaking his duck against it is Stoke, whom United visit on Sunday. He has scored seven goals in his last five games against the struggling Potteries outfit, including one in the reverse fixture at Old Trafford in October.