Henrik Larsson can play in the Premiership again in the future, according to Sir Alex Ferguson.
The Swedish striker's loan spell at Manchester United comes to an end following Saturday's FA Cup quarter-final against Middlesbrough.
Larsson has helped The Red Devils progress in the FA Cup and UEFA Champions League during his ten weeks at Old Trafford.
The 35-year-old could well play his last competitive game in England at the weekend and will leave with Ferguson's best wishes.
But the United manager believes Larsson would be capable of returning to the Premiership before his career ends.
"Henrik could play in the Premiership at 36," Ferguson said.
"He probably could not play every week but he could play 30 games in a season, I am sure of that.
"He has looked after himself and his fitness is fantastic. Look at Teddy Sheringham at West Ham. He is 41 this month. Henrik could do that."
Meanwhile, Ferguson is adamant he has no regrets over Larsson's imminent departure, despite late attempts to keep the former Celtic man in England.
Larsson will return to his homeland next week in order to prepare for the start of the upcoming Swedish season with Helsingborgs.
"There is no regret about Henrik leaving at all," Ferguson added. "I respect the decision. He has kept his promise to Helsingborgs and his family and it is quite right he should stick by that. That is the end of the matter.
"He has been fantastic. You can only say we have been lucky to have him for the short spell he has been here."
nah. i dont think so. fergie just needs a new striker