Manchester United have been boosted by the news that Robin van Persie has declared himself fit for Sunday’s derby clash with Manchester City.

The Dutchman has been on the treatment table since United’s 2-1 defeat against Swansea back in February, but he is now closing in on a return to action.

United have managed to cope without him over the last six games as they have jumped over to City to cement their place in the Champions League places, but his return is a boost nonetheless.

Reds boss Louis van Gaal was not expecting to have Van Persie available for the City game, but the striker revealed on his Twitter account that he is back fit and raring to go.

“Back to training with the group today,” he said. “Was a great session. Happy to be fit and able to play again. Looking forward to my next game!”

United have lost just once while Van Persie has been out of the side – the FA Cup defeat to Arsenal – and Van Gaal looks unlikely to bring him straight back into the side.

Wayne Rooney has shone as part of a three-pronged attack with Ashley Young and Juan Mata alongside him, and they are set to line up again when the Reds take on City.

United are 2.57 to pick up another three points, while City are 2.77 to bounce back from the shock defeat at Crystal Palace on Monday night. The draw is priced at 3.13.