Fletcher & United Await Van Gaal arrival

Darren Fletcher has described the “buzz” around the Aon Training Complex as United’s players anticipate the arrival of new manager Louis van Gaal.
Van Gaal with link up with his new team after the Netherlands’ World Cup campaign comes to a close with Saturday’s third-placed play-off against Brazil.

And Fletch admits the Reds are itching to start working under the Dutchman, as United look to bounce back from a below-par 2013/14 season.

“It's another season and an exciting one,” Fletch said at a press conference to announce next month’s pre-season match against Valencia.

“There are some new signings and a real buzz around the place. Everybody's looking forward to the manager coming in and him getting his ideas in.

“We want to push on after the disappointment of last season. We're desperate to do well for the fans and get the team back to where we belong.”

The REUNITED 14 friendly against Valencia on 12 August will likely give new signings Ander Herrera and Luke Shaw a first experience of playing for United at Old Trafford.

“They'll have a taste on the tour in the US but there will be nothing like playing at Old Trafford,” Fletcher said. “That's the bread and butter. They'll be looking forward to it – it's a magnificent arena.

“It's a friendly so it will be a gentle introduction and then they'll realise in the league games what Old Trafford's really like.”

Before then, Fletcher is taking part in his first summer tour since 2010, as the Reds head to the States next week. The Scot has missed pre-season in recent years because of illness.

“I haven't been in a position to do pre-season for about three years so I'm dead excited about it,” the 30-year-old midfielder said. “It's the ideal scenario for me and I'm looking forward to building up my fitness as best as I can.

“Knowing a big part of my game is based on that this pre-season will be vital for me. We're all in the same position – we need to impress the new manager and I'm no different. Every opportunity you get, you have to show that you're good enough.

“It's a challenge, sure, but football's a challenge. I love the club. I've been here since I was 15 and there have been disappointments in terms of personal health and last season.

“But I think a bright season's ahead. I know it's easy to talk about it so you have to go out and do it and that's what I'm going to try to do.”