MANCHESTER, United Kingdom (AFP) - Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson said on Thursday he does intend to give Robin van Persie a break despite the striker's recent struggles in front of goal.

Dutch international van Persie has scored 19 times in the Premier League this season which has helped United establish a 15-point lead at the top of the table.

However, the Dutchman has not found the net for United in his last nine matches which has led to questions about whether he is suffering from fatigue.

With Wayne Rooney having resumed training after a recent groin injury Ferguson could be tempted to rest van Persie for Monday's match with Manchester City.

But the United manager dismissed any talk of tiredness and backed van Persie, 29, to rediscover his goalscoring form before the end of the campaign.

"He doesn't need a rest that's for sure. He's a strong lad with a great

physique and it's a bit disappointing last week that the goal against

Sunderland wasn't awarded to him," Ferguson said.

"The goals are there, they will come."