Darren Fletcher Drops Bombshell Revelation in Debut Man Utd Press Conference
Darren Fletcher has verified that Manchester United skipper Bruno Fernandes is available for Wednesday evening's match against Burnley, describing his temporary appointment as an "incredible privilege" following Ruben Amorim's departure.
Fletcher, United's former technical director, academy instructor and current U18s head coach, addressed the press on Tuesday night for the first time in his interim position, just one day after Amorim was removed from Old Trafford due to conflicts with club management.
"It represents an incredible privilege to guide a Manchester United squad, particularly since this was never something I could have imagined happening," he shared with journalists.
"Leading the team out is an incredible privilege and something that fills me with immense pride, though not under the circumstances I would have anticipated, which makes it somewhat uncomfortable for me," he continued, acknowledging the challenging situation facing the club.
"However, I must focus on my responsibilities and simply guide the team tomorrow [versus Burnley] while embracing the tremendous privilege and pride that comes with this role.
Man Utd Interim Manager: Fletcher in Contention
Fletcher, who will receive support from Travis Binnion—United's U21 head coach, U21 assistant Alan Wright and former colleague Jonny Evans, was predictably questioned about the duration of his role. Currently, he will oversee at least the Burnley fixture, with United intending to install an interim manager through season's end before making a permanent appointment in summer.
BBC Sport reports that Fletcher is one of three club icons with whom "initial discussions" have occurred regarding the interim manager position until season's conclusion. Previous manager Ole Gunnar Solskjær and Michael Carrick, who served three matches as caretaker in 2021, complete the trio.
His answers to such inquiries remained measured, concentrated on the upcoming 90 minutes of play.
"Concentrate on this match and then discuss after the final whistle," Fletcher stated regarding extending his tenure.
"Everything unfolded rapidly on Monday with a fixture to prepare for and a swift turnaround, training session to arrange, players to address. The emphasis is on the Burnley encounter as I believe we must give the Burnley match the attention and preparation it merits to ready the squad in such limited time.
"Truthfully it's not something I've considered. Concentrating on Burnley, that conversation is for post-match. Everything has moved so swiftly that all my attention is on Burnley. I realize it's a standard response but that's the reality."
Fernandes Availability Cleared Up
Fernandes was sidelined for Amorim's final three matches due to an uncommon injury setback. The captain's absence was felt, with United scoring just three goals in those three games, versus 10 in the preceding three matches he featured in. However, Fernandes has been confirmed as fit.
"Mason [Mount] and Bruno were eager to feature against Leeds but the determination was made that they weren't completely prepared. They have participated in training and should return to the squad," Fletcher verified.
"They are on controlled minutes and limited playing time since they have recently resumed training, which is positive news, particularly as they are performers who have shown excellent form. Mason Mount's performances have been outstanding and Bruno Fernandes... his quality speaks for itself.
"He's the captain, the team leader. Having them ready for selection is clearly excellent news for myself, the squad, the club and the supporters."