Manchester United striker Robin van Persie an injury concern following half-time substitution while on international duty

Robin van Persie in action for the Netherlands (GETTY IMAGES)

Netherlands coach Louis van Gaal has played down concerns after Manchester United striker Robin van Persie was withdrawn during last night's World Cup qualifier against Hungary.

Van Persie was taken off at half-time in the 4-1 win in Budapest after suffering a knock to his thigh. But Van Gaal has insisted the decision was simply a precaution.

"We took off Robin for precautionary measures," Van Gaal told the SBS6 television channel.

"It doesn't seem to be too serious, but you never know. We didn't want to take any risks."

Van Persie, who joined Manchester United from Arsenal in a £24m deal over the summer, endured a horrendous injury record during his time in London.

It will be a concern for manager Sir Alex Ferguson, who is currently missing England striker Wayne Rooney.

There are also doubts over the fitness of Shinji Kagawa who withdrew from Japan's match with Iraq yesterday with a back injury, although the player himself is optimistic.

"I felt a twinge during training," Kagawa said. "It's not that serious and should not keep me out for long."

United play Wigan on Saturday before beginning their Champions League campaign at home to Galatasaray on Wednesday.