Fletcher Eyes League Chance

Darren Fletcher is looking forward to getting back into Barclays Premier League action but is willing to bide his time.

The Scotland international, who is away with Craig Levein's squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers, has made great strides in coming back to football after being diagnosed with ulcerative colitis.

Although figuring in both Champions League ties and the Capital One Cup win over Newcastle, the last time the 28-year-old was on the pitch in the league was back in November 2011 when he came on as a substitute at Swansea's Liberty Stadium.

"It's what it's all about," he told MUTV. "Getting as many games as possible.

"I know the manager has got such a big squad now, especially in the midfield area, and there is a lot of competition for places. I have to be patient and wait for my chances but, hopefully, one will come around sooner rather than later.

"I think my general fitness is fine, it's just match fitness - the sharpness, reaction times, things in your head and things like that. The positional sense, when you're a little bit older, comes back to you fairly quickly."

Fletcher also has some Under-21 and behind-closed-doors matches under his belt as he aims to become a regular again in Sir Alex's side.

"To get as many 90 minutes as possible is great just now," he admitted. "After not playing for a long time, it's important to get games back into your legs. Fortunately, I've had quite a few games for the Reserves as well.

"I was just desperate to get back involved in any way, shape or form. For me, firstly playing for the Reserves was massive and a great achievement. Going into every game, I treat them the same. It doesn't matter where it is - the Reserves, Capital One Cup, back in Scotland - every match is the same when you get across that line and just want to get back to winning ways."