Javier Hernandez expects 'more opportunities' at Manchester United, may stay at Old Trafford

The Mexico international spent the season on loan with Real Madrid

Chicharito celebrates his goal (GETTY IMAGES)

Javier Hernandez has suggested he may remain at Manchester United beyond this summer.

The Mexico international was allowed to go out on loan for the season to Real Madrid, but after starting just a handful of games, the Spanish giants opted not to make the move permanent.

It sees the 27-year-old return to Old Trafford and despite being deemed surplus to requirements last summer, the club's return to the Champions League has given 'Little Pea' hope that he could yet play a role.

"When (Louis) Van Gaal arrived, he wanted to restructure the team and reduce the number of players," he said.

"They weren't playing in Europe and he preferred to focus on the Premier League. Perhaps he didn't want many players because we wouldn't have played, but now the situation is different.

"There will be a Champions League preliminary round to play, which means many more games and I think there might be more opportunities.

"I think I have more options to play at United next season. What any player wants is to play and if that doesn't happen at United, I will look for a team where I will be given more playing time.

"If it's at Manchester United or another team, I will be equally happy. My priority is to play."

Speaking at the end of the season, Van Gaal indicated he had plans in mind for which players would be allowed to leave.

"The transfer period is a process," he said. "I know which players have to go and which have to come but you never know if they go or if they come because it will depend on a lot of aspects."

Manchester United look short on strikers having opted not to make Radamel Falcao's loan permanent and Robin van Persie looking likely to leave.