Premier League: Radamel Falcao can only play for 20 minutes, says Manchester United coach Louis van Gaal

Radamel Falcao: Van Gaal says United striker is far from fit

Louis van Gaal insists Radamel Falcao is not fit enough to start for Manchester United and is "not interested" in whether he is unhappy at being left out.

Falcao, who is on a season-long loan from Monaco, has made just three starts and four substitute appearances in the Premier League.

The 28-year-old Colombia international is expected to be a substitute for the trip to Southampton, live on Monday Night Football, after the United manager confirmed Wayne Rooney is fit and "will play".

I am not interested whether he (Falcao) is unhappy being on the bench. He has to follow my philosophy. Louis van Gaal

Van Gaal said: "Falcao needs match fitness. He can only play for 20 minutes.

"I have selected him despite that but the rhythm of the game in the Premier League is the highest.

"It would be a better contribution if he played with the second team but I cannot do that because on Tuesday, Rooney was injured for the match against Stoke.

"I had to adapt to the needs of selection. I am not interested whether he is unhappy being on the bench. He has to follow my philosophy. I am here because of that."

Van Gaal also praised the harmony in his squad ahead of their trip to St Mary's after witnessing their togetherness at the Manchester United Christmas party, organised by captain Rooney.

"It was fantastic. My wife and I enjoyed it very much," he said.

"Usually I don't use words like 'fantastic' but I think it showed the cohesion in our group from both the players and staff - it was very important."

Monday Night Football: Southampton v Manchester United is live on Sky Sports 1HD from 7pm.