Source: Manchester_EveningNews
Fletcher to delay surgery
UNITED midfielder Darren Fletcher is prepared to break the pain barrier this season to help the Reds. Fletcher is set to soldier on through the campaign with painkillers, knowing that a summer ankle operation has been pencilled in. The 25-year-old has had an injection to get him back in the side after missing the last five matches with the long-standing trouble and is likely to need more as the season wears on. "I injured my ankle in the Sunderland game. A bit of bone has broken off the back of my ankle and has stuck," said Darren. "So every time I bend it is causing a bit of pain. I have had an injection to clear it up for a while. Eventually it is going to need to be cleaned out. I have had it for a couple of years now and the build-up of whatever has been constantly aggravating it. "There has been a build-up of fluid as well and other medical things that the doctors know more about! "I will have to get something done but the injection will see me through a few months. "It should be OK to the end of the season. That is the plan to get me through to the summer and then do something then. Fletcher injury "Striking a ball or bending the ankle in a flexed position or pushing off hurts. "It got to the point where it was too sore to train and play so something had to be done and I had the injection. "It is nice to be back. There are always a few cobwebs when you come back but I felt fine against CSKA and the injury felt fine. My fitness was good but the overall sharpness and touch is not there yet. This game will definitely help me." Meanwhile, the back trouble that kept Ferdinand out of the Reds side for nine matches in the middle of last season is still bothering the centre back and could be behind his struggle for form. Meanwhile, Fletcher is relishing the challenge of Sunday's Stamford Bridge showdown against Chelsea. "They have a top midfield but you look all around and they are strong," said Fletcher. "The thing about Chelsea is their strength. That is the thing you notice about them. They are all physically strong and good players as well. "There is great respect between the two of us. We have been challenging for the league the past five or six years. It is going to be a great challenge at Stamford Bridge. They have a great record at home. "There is a long way to go in the title race but psychologically it could be important." Which midfielder should play for United against Chelsea? Have your say.
