NORTHWICH Victoria have brought a former Manchester United striker back to the club – nearly a decade after he left.

Aaron Burns has returned to bolster Vics boss Steve Wilkes' attacking options, with the 32-year-old frontman having last played at BetVictor South/East Division outfit Droylsden.

Having started in the youth team at Old Trafford, Burns has scored more than 200 goals in his career, which included a two-year spell with the Trickies between 2008 and 2010.

"It feels good to be back," Burns told Vics' official website.

"I am often very methodical in my planning regarding football and moves, but I didn't see this coming.

"It feels like this was potentially written as I started my non-league career here many moons ago. "

"The manager and I have been keeping in contact for a while and he has really sold the project to me.

"He and I, feel that I can add experience and goals to the campaign, and hopefully end the season exactly where this club needs to be."

Burns is eligible to make his second debut when Vics travel to Skelmersdale United on Saturday.

Looking further ahead, though, the striker's ambition is clear.

"Promotion is the aim for this special club," he said.

"We have enough games left to put a run together, and really get that charge for promotion moving.

"I and everyone I have spoken to so far believe it is achievable, and we will do our best to succeed."

Wilkes admits it has been a fairly long-winded pursuit of Burns and he is now delighted to have got his man.

"I'm so pleased to finally land Aaron – I've been chasing him for a month now," he said.

"I know the club will welcome him back with open arms and I can't wait to hear the Aaron Burns chant on the terraces.

"We've signed a truly experienced player who will hopefully score plenty of goals, which is Aaron's forte."