A few months ago it looked as though Darren Fletcher’s football career might be over.

After coming off the bench in our game against Galatasaray last week, playing in his first game for the first team in almost a year, Fletcher played the full 90 in our League Cup victory over Newcastle last night, wearing the captain’s armband.

“It is great to be back,” Fletcher said. “I have had a few reserve games and a run-out in the Champions League last week but it is good to be back, especially at Old Trafford, and in a winning team as well.”

Sir Alex Ferguson was happy to see the fans give Fletcher a warm welcome last week when he replaced Scholes with ten minutes to play.

“The fans recognised what a tough time Darren has had,” said Ferguson. “It was a mark of respect that they gave him a marvellous ovation.”