Manchester United striker Robin van Persie is reportedly hopeful of returning to the squad for this Saturday's match against Sunderland at Old Trafford.

The Dutchman was originally expected to miss the rest of the season after suffering a knee injury during United's 3-0 victory over Olympiacos in the Champions League on March 19.

However, interim manager Ryan Giggs revealed this week that the former Arsenal captain has returned to training and could make his comeback before the end of the campaign.

According to Goal.com, Van Persie is hopeful that he will be handed a spot on the bench for Giggs's second game in charge at the weekend.

Meanwhile, widespread reports have claimed that it is only a matter of time before Netherlands boss Louis van Gaal is appointed as permanent manager at Old Trafford following David Moyes's dismissal.