Sir Alex boosts Fletch hopes

Darren Fletcher has been assured he is very much part of Sir Alex Ferguson's plans for next season.

Fletcher was restricted to 11 starts last term, due to the strong competition for places in United’s midfield and a knee injury which sidelined him for most of April.

But the Scot’s superb two-goal FA Cup display against Arsenal in February demonstrated his ability to rise to the occasion, a trait Ferguson values highly.

The Reds boss told Sky Sports: “He’s been very unlucky, but he keeps coming back. He’s an important player to us.

“He always plays well in big games – that’s the great value he brings to the club. He’s a big-game player and we’ve plenty of big games, so he’ll play his part.”

Fletcher revealed in May that his frustration at not playing every week motivates him to succeed when he does get a chance.

“You have to take disappointment and use it as a fuel,” the 24-year-old said. “If you’re not selected then you have to think to yourself ‘I’m going to make an impact if I get on’. You can’t let your head get down at all.

“I’ve picked up injuries at bad times when I’ve got into the team and started to play well. We have a great squad here and I have to be patient.”