Manchester United striker Robin van Persie believes he will return to action for the Red Devils in time to face local rivals Manchester City on 12th April.

The 31-year-old has been out of action since suffering an ankle injury during a 2-1 defeat to Swansea in February, and will be hoping to return to the squad as soon as possible with Louis van Gaal’s men enjoying impressive form in the Premier League.

Imposing victories over top-four contenders Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool have seen the Reds net the goals without the Dutchman, who last scored in a 3-1 victory against Burnley on 11th February. Following a period in Holland, van Persie has since stepped up his rehabilitation with United’s physiotherapist Matt Radcliffe.

Having netted the late winner against Manchester City in the derby in 2012, with his heroics ultimately swinging the title back in United’s favour, he will be keen to return to action in time as his side trail Manuel Pellegrini’s men by just two points.

And with confidence growing for Manchester United, van Persie will also be hoping to impress boss van Gaal, as he prepares to enter the final year of his contract next season following his move from Arsenal. A lacklustre start to the season saw both van Persie and Radamel Falcao struggle to find the net, and both will be required to start finishing opportunities should they wish to remain at the Theatre of Dreams.

Van Gaal commented on his fellow countryman two weeks ago, and while ruling out returns against Tottenham and Liverpool, he did not exclude him as possible starter following the international break,

"He is still with the medical department and needs to take the step to the technical department," the manager previously said. "He is always training but the medical department is also sports science so he is training inside, not outside on the pitch. Even when he is on the pitch, he is with the medical department.

"He will then take the step to the technical department and then we have a process when he comes into our selection and trains."

Robin van Persie has scored ten goals in 24 league appearances this season, including a brace at Southampton in December.