Victor Valdes, Manchester United’s only January signing, has been told by manager Louis van Gaal that he must prove himself in the reserves before being handed a first-team chance.

The ex-Barca shot-stopper has yet to make his debut for Manchester United, failing to impress van Gaal enough to persuade the Dutchman to displace in-form first choice goalkeeper, David De Gea.

Monday’s FA Cup 5th round tie against League One side, Preston North End, seems a good opportunity to introduce Valdes to the team, but van Gaal’s recent comments suggest that the Spaniard may have to settle for playing with the reserve team for now.

Upon joining the club, Valdes claimed that he was not happy to be second choice and will fight for his place in the starting XI; but after a very serious knee injury, his rehabilitation may take a little while longer.

Van Gaal seconded this, saying: “When you are out for more than a year, first of all you have to show yourself at a lower level. He has to do it in the second team [the u21s], like Ashley Young is doing that, like Michael Carrick has to do that. It is always the same. I think it is normal.

Valdes’ only Manchester United appearance so far came for the u21 side, in a 2-1 victory over Liverpool last month.

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