Radamel Falcao was reportedly stunned when Louis van Gaal opted to leave him out of the Manchester United squad to face Southampton at the weekend.
The Colombian, who joined the Red Devils from Monaco in the summer on a season-long loan, was a shock omission from the 18-man party as he had started the last five games and scored twice.
Van Gaal confirmed prior to his side's 1-0 defeat to Southampton at Old Trafford on Sunday that Falcao's absence was not down to injury but rather for tactical reasons.
According to the Daily Star, the 28-year-old was confident of featuring against the Saints and was shocked by Van Gaal's decision to leave him out, which raises questions over his long-term United future.
Falcao has made it clear numerous times that he wants to stay with the Premier League club beyond his loan deal, but reports have claimed that United are yet to decide whether to take up the option of a £43m permanent transfer.
Danielle Joynson
