Manchester United icon Eric Cantona is coming back to Old Trafford.

Cantona's return has been confirmed as part of Paul Scholes' testimonial game on August 5, when the Frenchman will coach the legendary New York Cosmos side, currently bidding to gain admittance to Major League Soccer.

Although a decent crowd could have been anticipated anyway to mark Scholes' retirement, which was announced in the wake of Manchester United's Champions League final defeat to Barcelona last month, Cantona's presence will only fuel interest further.

The charismatic striker is regarded as one of the most significant figures in the club's history, proving to be the catalyst for United's emergence as the dominant side of the Premier League era.

He quit suddenly in 1997, having won four titles and two domestic doubles in his five seasons at Old Trafford.

"I wish to congratulate Paul for such an incredible career at Manchester United and I am looking forward to returning to Old Trafford in my new role with the New York Cosmos," said Cantona, who recently celebrated his 45th birthday.

Scholes has committed himself to a coaching career at Old Trafford, having marked the end of his playing days, during which he secured ten league titles, a figure second only to Ryan Giggs.

He is widely acknowledged to be one of the finest English players of his generation, with Sir Alex Ferguson all the more appreciative because Scholes turned his back on the celebrity lifestyle so many of his contemporaries revel in.

"Paul's retirement was typical of the man, low key, he was safe on holiday just so he could avoid any media interviews," said Ferguson.

"However he won't be able to hide away this time and it will be fantastic for the fans to be able to bid farewell to this exceptional footballer."