Manchester United's Robin van Persie (R) is challenged by Burnley's Michael Duff during their English Premier League soccer match at Turf Moor in Burnley, northern England August 30, 2014. REUTERS/Andrew Yates
Manchester United's Robin van Persie (R) is challenged by Burnley's Michael Duff during their English Premier League soccer match at Turf Moor in Burnley, northern England August 30, 2014. REUTERS/Andrew Yates

Manchester United striker Robin van Persie revealed that he is ready to compete with recent loan signing Radamel Falcao for a starting berth on Louis van Gaal's squad.

The Colombian international was heavily linked with a move to Real Madrid, but apparently opted to sign with the Red Devils.

"I welcome his arrival, he makes us better," Van Persie told Fox Sports NL.

"At a top club you should always go for the best, which also fits my philosophy. Falcao must fight for his place, as I also have to."

RVP's health, which is rumoured to be the primary reason that prompted the Old Trafford hierarchy to acquire another top player upfront that can bolster their chances of securing a top-four finish and in turn, get back to Europe's most prestigious competition - the Champions League.

"I am impressed that people have the imagination to invent something like that," he added, referring to gossips that he will have to undergo a knee operation.

"I do not know where it comes from and can say with my hand on my heart that I won't be in a hospital to have the operation."

Van Persie suffered a series of injuries (groin, hamstring, knee) last season that caused him to make only 21 Premier League appearances.

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