Competition keeps us on our toes - Fletcher

Manchester United continue their quest for three trophies against Portsmouth tomorrow with Darren Fletcher believing the fierce competition for places will drive them towards their goals.

Already in the Champions League quarter-finals, the Old Trafford club will be aiming to reach the FA Cup semi-finals when they face Harry Redknapp’s team.

After spending much of the season on the fringes of Alex Ferguson’s side, midfielder Fletcher has started three of the last five matches and is relishing the opportunity to shine.

He said: “When you get a chance to play you really have to grasp it because there is such fierce competition for places.

“The manager has a great squad to choose from so When you do get the nod you have to go there and perform to a high level.

“There is always someone capable of taking your place in the next game.”

Whether the Scottish international keeps his first-team shirt against Pompey is open to debate, but he has certainly made a case for being retained in the starting line-up.

Two goals against Arsenal in the last round, a rousing 4-0 win, and fine performances against Newcastle and Lyon – in the Champions League this week - have stated his case.

He said: “This situation is great for us as a club, and individually, because there are going to be a lot of games for everyone as we get down to the nitty gritty. Hopefully our squad will carry us through in all competitions.”