Fletcher signs new United deal

Darren Fletcher has signed a new four-year contract with Manchester United that will keep him at Old Trafford until 2015, it was announced today.

Although life with United has not always been smooth for the 27-year-old, who joined the club in 2000, in more recent years he has become a significant figure in Alex Ferguson's squad.

His absence through suspension was cited as one of the reasons why United performed so badly in the 2009 Champions League final against Barcelona.

Ferguson said: "Darren has been at the club since he was 15.

"I am extremely proud that he came through the ranks of our youth academy and am delighted Darren has signed a new contract.

"He has developed into a top-class midfielder."