Denis Law Backs Fletcher Recovery

Denis Law has wished his fellow Scot Darren Fletcher well in his bid to return to the Manchester United first team.

The Old Trafford legend appreciates the midfielder has missed out on being a driving force for both club and country after requiring time off for treatment to deal with ulcerative colitis, a form of inflammatory bowel disease.

Fletcher's last senior appearance came on Boxing Day in 2012, against Newcastle United, but he has managed to get a couple of recent Under-21 appearances under his belt as an over-aged player for Warren Joyce's side.

"He's had a horrible time, hasn't he?" said Law. "He was going to be a key player for Scotland as well as Manchester United. It's awful to have that situation where you're not playing and obviously don't feel well either.

"He is coming back, which is good news, as it's been almost a year now. We all wish Darren the best of luck to come back."

Fletcher, 29, is helping the youngsters develop in the Under-21s as he leads by example and Law is keen to see the club's tradition of promoting homegrown talent continue.

"Sir Alex Ferguson always wanted that in the team and he brought through a number of them," explained the Scot to ManUtd.com. "That is what you want and David Moyes feels the same.

"The base has always been with Matt Busby and the Busby Babes and, even if you have to buy somebody eventually, there should always be youngsters too.

"They often say the young won't win it for you but they will be the basis for years to come and learn from the older professionals. You've got to do that if you're going to have a sustainable team for years. You need the young ones to come in and get experience. If they're good enough, they will stay in the team and you can build from there."