Fletcher set for Champions League place

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson is set to name Darren Fletcher in his 25-man Champions League squad. Clubs have to confirm their squads to Uefa on Monday.

As he is battling to overcome a chronic bowel condition, there was some doubt as to whether Fletcher would be part of United’s latest European assault. However, after another encouraging outing for United’s Under-21 side against Spurs in midweek, it is looking more likely Fletcher, 28, will be able to return to first-team duties.

And with places available due to the number of home-grown players in Ferguson’s squad, Fletcher is set to make the cut.

“We haven’t finalised the Champions League squad yet – we’re looking at that at the moment,” said Ferguson. “But Darren comes into the 25-man squad quite easily, without me having to leave others out because we have a number of players who we don’t need to register because of the time they’ve spent with us as an Academy player. That’s an advantage.”

Ferguson confirmed Fletcher will again link up with the Scotland squad next week as a further part of his rehabilitation.