Ferguson plays down Larsson debate

Henrik Larsson will leave Manchester United as planned in March and return to Helsingborg, according to manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

There is already a clamour for the former Celtic striker to extend his loan deal after the 35-year-old marked an impressive debut by scoring in the FA Cup victory against Aston Villa.

Ferguson, however, is remaining cool, saying: "Henrik is here until March 12 and we are not looking beyond that. I do not think it is pertinent at this moment anyway. It would not be fair to start putting Helsingborg under that type of pressure."

He added: "Henrik is enjoying playing here and that is the way we are going to leave it."

Larsson is pushing to retain his place in the side but he may have to spend some time on the bench during his first taste of English football.

Ferguson said: "Henrik's first game was excellent for us. It gave us an insight into the type of player he is. He showed last week he can be a fantastic asset to us.

"He may not play all of the games, but the important thing at his age and with his experience is he will understand that. He has an important role and we will use him when he is fresh.

"Looking at the next game is an issue too and which is the most important match."