Colombia manager Jose Pekerman admits he must attempt to rebuild the shattered confidence of striker Radamel Falcao during the friendlies against Bahrain and Kuwait next week.

Falcao has endured a nightmare season since joining Manchester United on loan from Monaco last August, scoring just four times in 22 appearances for the Red Devils.

Manager Louis van Gaal appears unlikely to offer Falcao an extended stay at Old Trafford when the season ends and Pekerman admits it is proving to be a tough time for the 29-year-old.

Despite his struggles at United, the Colombia boss is insistent he will stand by Falcao and allow him the chance to try and find some form.

“I feel I need to support him because I understand how hard it is for him and the difficult moment he is experiencing. I want to work with him again and help him restore his confidence,” said Pekerman.

Falcao was given another short cameo by Van Gaal as United overcame Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday, meaning the striker has managed just 16 minutes on the field during his team’s last four games in all competitions.

Pekerman says the upcoming friendlies for Colombia are a big chance for Falcao.

“I know Falcao’s strengths, his mentality and his fighting spirit, and I’ve never doubted that he’ll come out the other side,” Pekerman said.

“He’s in a bad moment, but he’s looking after himself and this week is going to be very important for him.”

United are 1.32 to defeat Aston Villa (9.38) in their next game at Old Trafford, with the draw 4.38.