Van Gaal challenges Falcao to "prove himself"

It's Saturday tomorrow, which means it's Friday today, which means it's time, once again, for Louis van Gaal Meets the Journos. As ever, United's manager has been talking on matters diverse and various, but his answer to one question was of particular note:

If a player costs £95million or £5,000 it doesn't make any difference. You have to prove yourself.

He was talking, apparently, about Radamel Falcao, whose absence from the squad against Southampton caused much consternation. It seems clear that Van Gaal won't simply be rubber-stamping a permanent contract for Falcao at the end of the season, and as such time is running out for the Colombian to score the goals that will get him the deal that will keep him at the house that Sir Matt built.

But still, with Robin van Persie carrying a knock, surely he'll have the chance to get going against QPR weekend?

You'll have to wait and see. When I say that a part of my line-up is known and I make it easy for my opponent.

Oh, Louis. You tease.