Louis van Gaal has suggested Manchester United have no immediate plans to recall striker James Wilson from his loan spell at Albion.

The United boss said today: "We have sent him to Brighton because he needs match rhythm and he has to show his qualities.

"We have extended his contract because of his qualities and we believe in him. If we are in trouble we can recall him."

The Argus website revealed yesterday that United reserve coach Warren Joyce had hinted at Wilson seeing out his stay with the Seagulls.

Two-goal Wilson makes his fifth appearance for Albion in tomorrow's top-of-the-table tussle at home to Middlesbrough, after which United have the option of invoking the recall option on his season-long youth loan.

Wayne Rooney could return from injury for United against Norwich tomorrow.