I really regret leaving Manchester United - but I had a promise to keep

From Denis Law to Ruud van Nistelrooy, Manchester United have rarely been short of a household name at the tip of their attack over the years.

As one of world football's most explosive powerhouses, United have always had an expectation on their shoulders to have an elite-level striker on hand. Whether it be via signing a domestic rival's leading marksman or an overseas club's top scorer, the Reds have always wanted to have a guarantee of goals at the top end of the pitch.

That was a familiar theme throughout Sir Alex Ferguson's 26-year reign as United manager. He often made it his mission to add a goal-getter to his squad, ranging from Andy Cole to Robin van Persie.

United spent a lot on strikers during Ferguson's time in charge. However, there was once an occasion where the Scot relied on a loan deal to top up his attack.

It was on December 1, 2006, when United announced they had reached an agreement with Helsingborgs IF to sign Swedish icon Henrik Larsson. United were short on attacking options at the time, and having analysed various avenues, the club was adamant that signing the then-35-year-old was the best option available to them.

Ferguson said: "I have always admired Larsson. I made a move for him when he was at Celtic but then they managed to persuade him to stay. He is a great player. It is a terrific bit of business for us. We are bringing someone in who can change a game.

"We won't be going for any other strikers. We have exhausted all avenues and this, without doubt, is the best option."

Indeed, Ferguson had always been a fan of the 2001 European Golden Boot winner. During the Swede's time at Scottish giants Celtic, which saw him plunder 242 goals between 1997 and 2004, Ferguson attempted to lure Larsson