6 Best Goal Poachers in Manchester United History

In some cases, describing a striker as a "goal poacher" can be a disguised insult.

It may be implied that they can score the easy goals, but struggle anywhere other than the six-yard box.

For the six players on this list, nothing could be further from the truth. All were, or still are, fantastic, versatile forwards with a true goal-scoring knack.

Besides, what is so wrong with scoring tap-ins? They all count.

Here are the six best goal poachers in Manchester United history.

Ruud Van Nistelrooy

Goals: 150 (219)

In some ways it is a shame that Ruud van Nistelrooy did not stay at Old Trafford for longer.

Yet, he only won one Premier League title while at United, and his exit in 2006 led to one of the most successful periods in the club's history.

But he was a terrific player and a prolific goal scorer. He struck countless efforts within the penalty area, utilising his expert awareness and clinical finishing ability.

He remains the third all-time top scorer in Champions League history.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer

Goals: 166 (326)

You would be hard pressed to find a Manchester United fan alive who does not like Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

The baby-faced assassin is a true legend of the club. His Champions League-winning strike in 1999 aside, he struck countless vital goals for the Red Devils.

He was a striker who would capitalise on any half-chance in the box. Give him an inch and he would find the back of the net.

Now a successful manager, expect to see Ole one day return to the club that loves him as much as he loves it.

Denis Law

Goals: 237 (404)

Never mind his final, fateful season at Manchester City. Denis Law is another genuine Red Devil.

The Scottish striker is second in the Manchester United all-time top scorers list behind Sir Bobby Charlton, but has a far superior strike rate.

Law won two league titles and the European Cup once. He was named the European Footballer of the Year in 1964.

He could score in multiple ways and was a tenacious battler in the box. A poacher yes, but also a complete forward.

Andy Cole

Goals: 121 (275)

Andy Cole formed a devastating partnership with Dwight Yorke during his spell at United, and in truth, either player could have made this list

Cole gets the nod for his accomplishments and longevity at the club. He won five league titles between 1996 and 2001.

The English striker had a terrific right boot and a keen head in front of goal.

He is one of a select group of players to have scored five goals in the same game in the Premier League.

Javier Hernandez

Goals: 50 (117)

Javier Hernandez is the only player on this list still playing and still at Manchester United.

The Mexican striker arrived at Old Trafford in 2010 with moderate expectations, but has since impressed many with his continued work ethic and positive attitude.

Oh, and he is pretty deadly in front of goal, too. He seems born to score, though this may be, in part, due to the fact his father was also an international striker for Mexico.

He is still improving, too. David Moyes would be well advised to give him an increased role in the first team next term.

Dennis Viollet

Goals: 178 (294)

Dennis Viollet was one of the lucky ones to survive the Munich air disaster in 1958.

The Manchester-born striker played his best years at Old Trafford, scoring a multitude of goals from all angles.

He was best known for his blistering pace, but Viollet was also one of the most tactically astute forwards inside the box of his generation.

He currently sits fifth in the all-time top scorers list for United.

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