Fletcher Targets Tour Success

Darren Fletcher says Manchester United are aiming for success against tough opposition on Tour 2014, presented by Aon, as well as improving their fitness levels.

The Reds will play three matches in the International Champions Cup, following an opening game with LA Galaxy in the Chevrolet Cup, against AS Roma, Inter Milan and Real Madrid. Should United win their group against the three European opponents, a final against the other ICC group table-toppers, which includes Manchester City, Liverpool, AC Milan and Olympiacos, would give Louis van Gaal’s side the chance to return home with a trophy in addition to some invaluable preparation.

United’s Scottish midfielder is certain that the schedule of Tour 2014, presented by Aon, will give the squad the ideal way to start the 2014/15 campaign.

“You want to challenge yourself against the best, and although it’s pre-season if you’re playing against someone like Real Madrid you are going to be against top quality opposition,” Fletch told us.

“It’s like in training here, when we play in two teams [in training] it becomes quite competitive and you’ll see the same in these tour matches. Once you get on that pitch it’s competitive and you always want to win every game and every tournament you’re involved in.

“I’m sure the sports science lads will be saying that it’s all about minutes and not getting injured but sometimes these games can get feisty. It’s what you want as you want to make an impression and impress the fans and the manager because you want to be in the team for the start of the season.”

Now aged 30 and one of the squad’s elder statesmen, Darren knows how important a good pre-season campaign is.

“It’s your fitness base for the rest of the season," he insists. "I feel if you don’t get it, you end up playing catch-up and you’re slightly behind the lads in terms of fitness. When you get that fitness in pre-season, you are starting on a level playing field.

"It’s also good to build team-spirit, there might be a new player settling in and the manager can get across ideas as he’s working day in, day out with the players. All these things can contribute to a good season if you get a good pre-season behind you.”