The Dutchman insists the striker’s omission from the matchday squad on Sunday was based on the forwards who were available, rather than the Colombian’s fitness

Louis van Gaal has confirmed Radamel Falcao was not injured prior to Manchester United’s defeat to Southampton and claims the Colombian’s failure to make the matchday squad was based on selection reasons.

Falcao, who is on loan from Monaco, has scored five goals in 13 appearances for United this season and had started in the club’s last five matches prior to Sunday’s 1-0 defeat to Southampton.

Despite being unable to make the bench against Ronald Koeman’s men, Van Gaal has hinted that Falcao could return against QPR at Loftus Road next Saturday.

When asked if Falcao was left out against Southampton because he was injured, Van Gaal told Sky Sports: “No. We have now many players who are coming back.

“He has played the last three matches in a row. I have to compare players with each other. He was out of the 18 but that is this moment, next week is another moment.”

Dusan Tadic’s second-half strike sealed Southampton’s first-ever Premier League victory at Old Trafford and has put Ronald Koeman’s side in third place, two points clear of United.

Van Gaal’s men failed to register a shot on target at Old Trafford and the Dutchman has praised Southampton’s ability to restrict United.

“In football it’s always like that. We didn’t create so many chances in spite of dominating the game,” said the United boss.

“Only the first minute we gave them a chance. After that we dominated the game without creating that many chances. We created chances at the end. We played with heart. I put [Marouane] Fellaini up top and then we made three big chances but that was not enough.

“Southampton were defending well. You have always to take into account the opponent can play well. They defended well, good organisation. They came for a draw, I believe. They go away with a victory and that is disappointing.”