Van Gaal confirmed this week that the Dutch striker is back in training and the player himself has said he is setting the Manchester derby as his target. But if United are going to keep their place in the top four, maybe it would be better for Van Persie to sit out the rest of the season, allowing Van Gaal to stick with what has been working so well. Van Persie's presence guided United to glory in the past, but it is his absence now which is allowing the club to secure their place in next season's Champions League.