Source: Manchester_EveningNews
Ferguson: Fletcher one of our key men
IG game hunter Darren Fletcher will warm up tonight against CSKA Moscow in readiness to snare Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Sunday. The midfielder has been absent from United's squad since returning from Scotland's jaunt in Japan with an injury. The 25-year-old has missed five matches since but is booked in for his comeback against the Russians. It is a timely return for a player who now has a well-earned reputation for being a key Red in the headline showdowns. "Most people now recognise Darren Fletcher as a big game player," says Sir Alex Ferguson. "We have been aware of that for quite a while but now he is getting an acceptance from most people that he is a very important player for us. "I think Darren has been a very good player all the time but you find young players develop a maturity and an experience of playing. Fletcher confidence "That is probably the difference you see now. And I think there is also an acceptance by our fans that he is a key player in major games. "That has been very important to the lad. It gives him a confidence. But the biggest confidence he gets is when we pick him. That has been happening for quite a while now." Unavailable for selection are Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic, who are both suffering from calf problems, and Ryan Giggs. Ji-sung Park (knee) will be given another two weeks training before being considered again for action. Dimitar Berbatov, who suffered a kick on his kneecap against Blackburn, is a doubt as the Reds look to seal passage to the knockouts. Ferdinand and Vidic have been struggling for form of late, highlighted by their struggle at Liverpool, and both will remain doubtful for the trip to Chelsea. England defender Ferdinand, in particular, has been getting it in the neck for his performances. But Fergie has no concerns over the 30-year-old. "We have always had it where one of our star players finds that his little blip he is going to get criticism," said the Reds boss. "But he will come out of it there is no question about that." Is Fletcher United's best midfielder now? Have your say.
