And Strachan believes the Swede was right to keep the memories of his time at Celtic Park untarnished.

He said: “Would it (going for Larsson) ever have crossed my mind? Of course it would have but the feedback coming back was that was it.

“After that we didn’t want to put anybody under any pressure. It wouldn’t have been a wise decision, for both parties.

“To be honest I don’t know Henrik all that well but I think he’s right, at this stage, not to retrace his steps.

“That way he stays as a living legend here. But just look at where he’s gone since he left Celtic – Barcelona and United.

“That’s something else and he deserves it because he’s worked hard in the game.

“He’s had bad injuries but has been a good professional and now he’s being rewarded with a move to United.”

Larsson was thought to be heading into semi-retirement by moving back to Helsingborgs but Strachan insists no-one can blame the Swede for having one more crack at the big time.

He said: “We all say things, don’t we, but when Manchester United come calling you can forget about what was said.

“Everybody has the right to change their mind. When United come in you can change your mind completely if you like and say thank you very much.”

Celtic defender Mark Wilson is looking to return against Aberdeen in the Bank of Scotland Premier League after breaking his foot against Manchester United in September.

But the 22-year-old is pleased Larsson did not play in the Champions League game against the Red Devils at Celtic Park last month which the Hoops’ won 1-0 to ensure qualification to the last 16 for the first time.

Wilson said: “I’m glad he hadn’t joined United before we played them at Celtic Park.

“If Henrik had played he would have stuck away that penalty that Louis Saha missed or at least one of those other chances they had.

“It is an unbelievable move. I don’t think a lot of people saw it coming.

“Henrik is a fantastic player who scored goals here and at Barcelona. I’m sure it will be no different at Manchester United. He will be a great signing for them.”

While Larsson will not be returning to Celtic, the Parkhead side continue to be linked with players as the January transfer window looms closer.

Strachan revealed he had met the club’s major shareholder Dermot Desmond to discuss transfer budgets but would only say: ““We’re okay for midfielders and strikers but we’re looking elsewhere – there are 40 players on the radar.”