Moyes: Van Persie will play in friendly

25 July 2013 10:46

Manchester United manager David Moyes has confirmed Robin van Persie will play some part in Friday's friendly with Cerezo Osaka.

Van Persie was taken off as a precaution during Tuesday's defeat in Yokohama after feeling a tightness in his thigh.

The injury prompted a stinging attack from former Wales coach Raymond Verheijen, who recalling Moyes' previous claim he had "overtrained" Van Persie during United's week in Australia, said such training regimes were out of Jurassic Park.

It seems the comments were overblown, with Van Persie set to play in the fourth match of United's pre-season tour.

"It was just a precaution," said Moyes. "I expect he will play tomorrow."

Moyes confirmed Michael Carrick's tight groin was getting easier but the midfielder is unlikely to be risked.

And there was good news surrounding four of the players United he opted to leave at home.

"There was a practice match at the training ground the other day in which Nemanja Vidic, Antonio Valencia and Nani all got some playing time," he said.

"Wayne Rooney is running and is probably at the level we would have thought he would be.

"He has picked up his work again this week."

Source: PA