A MANCHESTER United shirt signed by legendary Swedish striker Henrik Larsson should go a long way towards helping young footballers kick-start their careers at Arbroath FC.

The club have one of the famous Red Devils shirts signed by the former Celtic hero for a fund-raising auction at this weekend’s annual sportsman’s dinner.

The striker’s short-term deal at Old Trafford ends this week.

Arbroath chairman John Christison said, “There can’t be too many Henrik Larsson Man United shirts around so this has got to be a bit of a coup.

”Larsson is a really special player and I’m sure this shirt will be of interest to Celtic fans as well as those who follow United.”

The club will use the sale of the shirt to help fund their youth development programme and have in mind a reserve of £500.

Because the shirt is rare and likely to be highly sought-after, the club will also accept telephone bids.

Contact committee member Malcolm Fairweather before the auction on Friday evening on 07770663928 to bid.

Other lots for the auction include a fortnight in a villa in Florida for six adults, an executive box for four at a Manchester United game, hospitality at the Open in Carnoustie and tickets for the last Old Firm game of the season at Ibrox.

Mr Christison said, ”Obviously we’d like to thank everyone who has supported the club with this venture and hopefully we can raise a record total on the night, too.”

The event, sponsored by the Portcullis, takes place in the town’s Meadowbank Inn on Friday evening.

The 220 guests will be entertained by Liverpool supersub David Fairclough, former Lindisfarne member Brendan Healey, ex-Arbroath players Gordon Marshall senior and Tom Cargill, and current Lichties boss John McGlashan.

The compere will be Sheriff Lindsay Wood.

A very limited number of tickets are available by calling 07770 663928.