Former Arsenal striker Alan Smith feels Radamel Falcao needs to hit the goals trail to win a long-term Manchester United deal.

Smith wrote in the Telegraph: "At the end of a combative goalless draw many supporters would have forgotten by the time they reached Tottenham High Road, Falcao's energy levels could not be criticised. The Colombian had been busy, he had shown the appetite for hard work that has characterised his career, having carved a reputation for being much more than a penalty-box poacher.

"It was the selfless attitude demanded at Atlético Madrid of all those who play for Diego Simeone; the desire that forms an integral part of Falcao's make-up. Chasing back into midfield to hustle opponents, nicking the ball to start counter attacks - these are the more prosaic attributes of the man on loan from Monaco who cost an arm and a leg to bring to Old Trafford.

"The fact he did cost so much in wages and fees means that, in the coming months, Van Gaal will rightly expect some bang for his buck if he is going to make the deal permanent next summer. More bang, for sure, than Falcao has supplied so far in registering only two goals in a United shirt."