Struggling with knee: Manchester United’s Robin van Persie (Picture: AP)

Robin van Persie may be forced to go under the knife as fears at Manchester United grow that he may never be 100 per cent fit again without a dreaded knee operation.

The Dutch striker was penciled in for surgery last season after injuring his left knee ligaments in the 3-0 win over Olympiakos in February.

However, then-Netherlands manager Louis van Gaal persuaded Van Persie to delay the procedure and manage the injury with rest to ensure he was fit for the World Cup in Brazil.

Now, according to The People, United and new boss Van Gaal know it’s only a matter of time before they lose Van Persie to the treatment table for an extended period of time.




The news may force Van Gaal’s hand in the market, as the loss of Van Persie at any point in the season would leave United significantly short of firepower.