Manchester United striker Robin van Persie has been ruled out for one month with a thigh injury, which has dealt a huge blow to Manchester United’s chances of climbing up the table.

Van Persie will miss upcoming matches against Aston Villa, West Ham United, Hull City, Norwich, Tottenham and two matches against Swansea (one in the league, and the other in the FA Cup). The Dutch striker may be back to full fitness in time for Manchester United’s crucial away match against Chelsea scheduled for January 19.

Manchester United manager David Moyes broke the news about van Persie’s injury, where he revealed in today’s press conference that Van Persie suffered a thigh strain.

So far this 2013/14 season, Van Persie has scored 16 goals for Manchester United in all competitions. The injury to Van Persie means that the likelihood of Javier Hernandez moving in the January transfer window looks unlikely, which will give the Mexican striker a chance to reestablish himself in the starting XI, in addition to providing Danny Welbeck with a chance to get more playing time for United.

Plus, the injury to Van Persie means that it’s even more unlikely now that Chelsea will be able to sign Wayne Rooney, even if Rooney and United have still failed to agree a contract renewal.

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