Van Persie fit for Manchester derby

Manchester United striker Robin van Persie has declared himself fit for Sunday's derby with Manchester City.

van Persie has missed United's last six games following an ankle injury he suffered in the 2-1 defeat at Swansea on February 21.

United manager Louis van Gaal said last week he did not expect the striker to be fit enough to return for Sunday's game at Old Trafford, but Van Persie reported good news for United fans on Wednesday on his Twitter account.

However, United have hardly missed the Dutchman, who has scored just 10 goals this term. During his absence, United have only lost once —  against Arsenal in the FA Cup.

The club have recorded creditable victories over Tottenham and Liverpool and last Saturday they moved above City into third with a 3-1 win over Aston Villa.

United captain Wayne Rooney has been performing well up front in a 4-3-3 formation alongside Ashley Young and Juan Mata, who scored both goals in the 2-1 win at Anfield two-and-a-half weeks ago.

 —PA