Following his ongoing battle with a mystery illness, the continued search for a midfielder and the recent emergence of Tom Cleverley, it would be easy for most people to forget about Darren Fletcher.
On the eve of Manchester United’s defeat by Liverpool on March 6, the midfielder came down with a temperature and was subsequently named on the bench.
He was introduced as an 83rd minute substitute at Anfield, but that would be his last appearance before the final league game against Blackpool.
Severe weight-loss and a lack of energy has hampered him since that loss at the hands of one of his side’s bitter rivals and has now raised question marks over his fitness with the start of the season looming.
The Scotsman has proved many of his critics and even a number of United fans wrong, over the last few seasons, becoming one of Sir Alex Ferguson’s main men.
It hasn’t come easy for Darren since his debut as a 19-year old in the Red Devils Champions League draw with FC Basel in 2003.
He would progress in the 2003/04 season, starting in 17 league games and often deployed on the right side of midfield following David Beckham’s move to the Bernabeu.
His impressive performances during the season would not go unnoticed, as he would become captain of Scotland at the tender age of 20.
Fletcher’s appearances became less frequent, especially after reportedly coming under extreme criticism from former United captain Roy Keane. A majority of fans shared the Irishman’s views and it wasn’t until 2008 that the footballing world witnessed the best of Darren.
A long-term injury to former United midfielder Owen Hargreaves in September 2008, paved the way for Darren to cement his spot in the first 11.
He would become the man, Fergie turned to in the big games for energy and high-work rate. This is something United tend to miss when going head-to-head with the powerhouses of European football.
His no-fuss approach and can-do attitude was sorely missed, but will it be enough to reclaim his position in the centre of midfield?
Fergie is keen to topple Barcelona and as a result, been linked to a number of technically gifted midfielders. The likes of Sneijder, Nasri and Modric have all been touted as possible signings, with Sneijder seen as the most likely of the three to join.
If you add Cleverley, Anderson, Carrick, Pogba to the current list of United players, it’s clear to some that Fletcher may well have to bide his time on the sidelines. However, he still has an important role to play for the club.
Playing ‘beautiful’ football is what all supporters of the game love to see, but a balance must be kept in order to achieve results and United will be determined not to replicate Arsenal’s recent drought.
This is where Fletcher takes centrestage, even though it may not be seen and appreciated by all.
He has the ability to put in the tough tackles and play with high energy and enthusiasm.
He may not have the technical ability of Carrick or Sneijder, but he has the heart and a part to play this season.
Fussball ist unser leben
Roar Guru
Excellent article. Got to say I've never been a fan of Darren Fletcher, but that hardly matters because the only people who matter - Fletcher's team mates and manager - obviously have the highest regard for the lad, since he has a steely determination to win, an obvious love for Man United and a willingness to put the team first. And, I'm sure SAF has a very soft spot for this fellow Scotsman.
james rosewarne
Roar Guru
Great article, and a victory for art over science.