Arguably the Scot’s best campaign in a red shirt – Fletcher has developed into the complete midfielder who possesses that unique knack of inspiring those around him...Story of the season: The man for the big occasion proved time and again during 2009/10 that he can handle the pressure against the cream of England and Europe. His all-action display in the dramatic 4-3 derby victory in September yielded two fine headed goals and he netted one of the strikes of the season against Everton two months later. As well as popping up on the score-sheet, Fletcher, who found himself playing in defence during a torrid spell of injuries, turned creator on numerous occasions with some pinpoint deliveries into the area which were gladly snapped up by Rooney and co. One of United’s most consistent performers throughout the campaign, he oozed class and energy when the Reds needed it most.
Finest moment: Fletcher’s glorious opener in the 3-0 victory over Everton at Old Trafford was an easy choice for the Goal of the Season shortlist in United’s end-of-season awards. After Patrice Evra’s cross was nodded down by Valencia into Fletcher’s path on the edge of the area, the midfielder overcame the awkward height of the bouncing ball and sent a scorching volley thundering towards the top corner, kissing Tim Howard’s right-hand post on the way in. Stunning.
What’s in store? Only bigger and better things. Playing in a Champions League final is one of Darren’s major ambitions after missing out so cruelly through suspension in 2009 (he was an unused sub in Moscow in ‘08) – he certainly deserves the opportunity to perform on Europe’s biggest stage.
