Legendary French defender and former United centre-back Laurent Blanc says he has been tracking Darren Fletcher's career after being tipped off by Sir Alex Ferguson that the Scottish midfielder would make the grade at Old Trafford.
Blanc was with United between 2001 and 2003, leaving a few months after Fletcher made his debut against Basel in the Champions League. Then aged 19, Fletcher is now 22 years old and regularly involved in the first team at Old Trafford.
He is also an integral part of Walter Smith's Scotland squad, who take on France in a Euro 2008 qualifier Park on Saturday. Blanc knows Fletcher will be a key player, and one for Ramond Domenech's side to look out for.
"I knew Darren when I was at Manchester, although he was just a young kid," he said. "He was already training with the first team and going away with us to games.
"One day, Sir Alex pulled me aside and said, 'See that young boy there? He's going to be a great player for us.' I have followed his career since and he has done very well to play for United every week. I remember he had great ability and I'm delighted he plays for Scotland."
Blanc doesn't have fond memories of Hampden Park, where the two teams meet this weekend. He made his competitive international debut there in 1989 in ScotlandÂ’s famous World Cup qualifier win, which prevented France from reaching Italia '90.
"What a horrible night it was," he said. "The weather was certainly on Scotland's side. This time, as long as it's not raining, we have a chance!"
stellazio
used
blanc is crap!
dinky1409
Haha.. Fletcher might have potential...
T.Ryousuke
Big what? what thing? bIG screwup izzit?
zocoss
Darren Fletcher insists Scotland cannot show any fear in their vital Euro 2008 qualifier against France.
Arsenal defender William Gallas has already stirred things up by insisting Les Bleus are the best team in the world ahead of the showdown.
But while Fletcher believes it is not a problem to hold the opposition in high esteem, he exuded confidence ahead of the fixture and has dismissed Gallas' controversial claims.
Both sides have a number injury worries ahead of the game, but Fletcher believes Manchester United team-mate Louis Saha could still feature despite doubts about his fitness.
"He didn't play against Newcastle, but he was on the bench ready to come on so I wouldn't be surprised if he played.
Dead_Man_Inc
darren fletcher?!?!?!?
CKeer
Originally posted by Dead_Man_Inc:
darren fletcher?!?!?!?
Oh, that guy. Nothing special really. No pace and strength. Not suitable for the premiership. He's more suited to Serie A cos he's more of a technical player.