Darren Fletcher made his comeback from a career-threatening illness on Wednesday night during their Champions League match with Galatasaray. The Scottish international came on for Paul Scholes with 11 minutes left and he was received a standing ovation from the home supporters.
The midfielder hasn’t featured for United since last November after suffering from Crohn’s disease, which is an inflammatory bowel condition. Originally it was expected that he would have to retire, but he made a great recovery and made an emotional return to football last night.
The manager, Sir Alex Ferguson said after the game: ‘The supporters recognise what a tough time he has had for the last year,’ said manager Sir Alex Ferguson.
‘They gave him a marvellous reception.
‘He has been out of the game for a year, it took him one or two minutes to get going but he can only be better after that.’
Manchester United ended up winning the game 1-0 thanks to an 8th minute Michael Carrick goal, Nani also missed a penalty in the second half, but it didn’t matter as the Red Devils managed to hold on to the win.
Alex William Batt
