Henrik Larsson has reiterated for the umpteenth time his
intention to honour his agreement with Helsingborgs and return to
Sweden next week.
The classy Swede has seemingly made his final competitive
appearance for Manchester United, in Saturday's FA Cup draw with
Middlesbrough, but his swansong will be a farewell game against a
European select XI in Tuesday's charity game at Old Trafford.
Larsson's fine form, when coupled with United's congested treatment
room, has led many to speculate that he would extend his stay until
the season's conclusion, with Sir Alex Ferguson's side still
gunning for a treble.
However, despite the pleas of Ferguson, his team-mates and
supporters alike, Larsson has no desire for a prolonged stay in
Manchester.
"I had a chat with Sir Alex but nothing would tempt me to change my
mind about leaving," said Larsson.
"It is a little bit sad but I knew when I signed this would be my
last game.
"It has been a pleasure to be here and I will follow this team
every step of the way now, keeping my fingers crossed that
everything goes well.
"Nobody knew what the situation would be when I left. United
initially signed me to cover some injuries they had at the
time.
"It is unfortunate Louis (Saha) got injured and Ole (Solskjaer) has
had a minor operation on his knee. I know it is not good timing for
me to leave now but that was the time period of the contract. These
things happen.
"There is a little break coming up, which will help them, and I am
confident they have enough to cope."
Such has been the impression Larsson has made on Ferguson, the
Scottish tactician has intimated that he believes the prolific
striker, despite his ageing limbs, could still do a job in the
Premiership next season.
Again, this observation is not one shared by Larsson: "This is
it.
"I am not 25 anymore. I am 36 this year so it [returning] is not
going to happen."