Keane sees Fletcher as centre midfield star

Scotland international Darren Fletcher has received the highest accolade from Manchester United captain Roy Keane – an invitation to play alongside him in midfield.

The Old Trafford youngster announced his presence on the scene by scoring the only goal of the game in the recent Euro 2004 qualifier against Lithuania to secure a play-off against Holland next month.

But United boss Alex Ferguson has revealed that the former Republic of Ireland skipper believes Fletcher can occupy a central midfield berth.

He told Rangers World: “On the pre-season tour, I told Roy Keane I was thinking of playing Darren wide right and see how he copes but he said to play in centre midfield.

“Roy said he had been sensational in training and all the players regard him highly. But wide right is the position for him at the moment.

“There are a lot of examples of players over the years. Darren has problems with injury in last two years and is still developing and gaining strength.

“Once he has regained his strength, then we can consider his proper position.”

But Ferguson admitted he had shocked his wife as he savoured the moment Fletcher clinched Scotland’s play-off berth at Hampden Park.

He said: “I was so delighted, I jumped out of my seat. My wife, Cathy, was sleeping while we were back in Aberdeen for the weekend.

“I was screaming and she was asking ‘Has something happened?’ and I told her Darren Fletcher had scored. I was so excited for the boy.”