United had tried, and failed, to sign Wesley Sneijder from Internazionale and Samir Nasri from Arsenal, and the club now have little option but to consider going into the January transfer market.
Ferguson stated last Friday that he had "nothing in mind at the moment" but the issue is now so serious it is almost inconceivable that he will not at least look at potential targets. Uppermost in Ferguson's thoughts, however, is the seriousness of Fletcher's condition and the feeling behind the scenes at Old Trafford that he needs to put his health first, whatever the ramifications for his employers.
United rarely release public statements about player injuries or medical conditions and the fact they felt willing to break this policy is another demonstration of how grave their concerns are for a year-old who should be at the peak of his game. Fletcher, who has made appearances for United and won 58 international caps, has looked noticeably gaunt at times and, in other moments, his face has appeared bloated because of the drugs he has been prescribed.
Solskjaer: Fletch has got good ideas. Share With email Copy Link. View Gallery. Fletcher's United story continues Video. Ole: We're close to that first trophy article The boss hopes an improved United side can go one better 12 months on from our last Carabao Cup semi-final.
Start your Independent Premium subscription today. Already subscribed? Log in. Forgotten your password? Want an ad-free experience? View offers. One of the most under-rated players in the English Premier League, it is hardly surprising that United's decline in form and performance come at a time when Fletcher was struggling to regain full fitness. Perhaps if he had been bought for 25m or so he would get the credit he deserves.
In all probability, his name will not go down in the 'Manchester United legend' list, but there are not many who will go down as a legend at United, so it's no disgrace for Fletcher not to be described as one. He was generally known as a big game player at United and was a vital part of Ferguson's game plan in many games. One that immediately springs to mind is the victory over Chelsea in the season when Fletcher scored the winning goal in a Man of the Match performance. He had a certain style and a certain job in the team and he usually performed both to great effect.
But his own hardworking personality and pride in playing for United and Scotland may have worked against him in his battle to cope with debilitating illness.
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