Fletch Proud To Make History

Darren Fletcher says he’s proud to be part of the first United team to beat AC Milan on Italian soil. Prior to Tuesday night’s 3-2 win, United sides had failed to even find the net on the four previous occasions the sides had met in Italy.

“It was a great experience,” Fletcher told ManUtd.com. “The San Siro is a fantastic setting and to win the game and become the first United team to do that in the stadium is a great achievement.”

The victory was all the more impressive given Sir Alex’s men went behind after just three minutes. United fans feared the worst and their minds were inevitably cast back to 2007 when two early Milan goals sunk United before the Reds had barely got started.

Fletcher, who was also involved on that occasion, believes last night’s performance proves how far United have come.

“As players you get more mature every season and pick up more experience and you learn how to cope with these sorts of situations. We were maybe a bit naïve [in the past], but hopefully the performance tonight shows we have come a long way.

“We need to maintain these standards in the Champions League, though. It’s no good resting on your laurels thinking you’ve made it because there are too many other teams with so much quality.”

United lead the tie 3-2 and will now enjoy home advantage when the Italians come to Old Trafford on Wednesday 10 March. Fletcher’s confident the Reds can finish the job, but he says scoring first will be crucial.

“We went to Italy to win the first leg and we’ve done that. But it’s still all to play for in the tie. We’ve seen the quality they’ve got in their side – they’re capable of creating chances and scoring goals – so we’ll have to be on top form to get through.

“You’ve got to feel confident after a result like this one; we’re confident of playing anyone at Old Trafford. We need to be careful and on our toes, but we’re in a great position and hopefully we can see it through.”

Fletch and his team-mates might, however, need a little help from the United supporters.

“The fans can play a massive part in the second leg,” he urged. “Champions League nights at Old Trafford are always special and we know the fans will get right behind us. Hopefully they’ll help get us through to the quarter-finals.”