Darren Fletcher’s health battle that was kept secret at Man Utd | Football | Sport
Darren Fletcher will be taking the helm at Manchester United for their match against Burnley, following the dismissal of head coach Ruben Amorim. The former United star, who returned to Old Trafford as a coach in 2020 after battling illness throughout his distinguished career, has been appointed caretaker manager.
Amorim’s departure comes just 14 months into his tenure, paving the way for Fletcher to temporarily take charge, with his first test coming against Burnley on Wednesday evening. While it is anticipated that an interim manager will soon be appointed for the rest of the season, this marks a significant milestone for Fletcher.
The former midfielder suffered from chronic bowel disease during his playing days and retired in 2019 due to concerns about the COVID pandemic. He now finds himself leading the team he once played for.
Fletcher’s journey with United began when he joined the youth setup at the age of 11. Despite nearly signing for Newcastle at 15, he chose to stay at Carrington, quickly catching the eye of Sir Alex Ferguson and earning a spot in the first team.
His knack for performing in high-stakes matches earned him a reputation, and during his time at Old Trafford, he clinched five Premier League titles, a Champions League trophy, an FA Cup, among other accolades.
However, his career took a turn in 2011 when he was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis, a chronic bowel disease. The illness caused him to lose almost three stone in weight and required surgical intervention.
However, Fletcher disclosed that he had been battling the condition since 2008, yet opted to keep his diagnosis private. Speaking in 2014, he explained: “I stayed silent until about 2011 or 2012 because it’s not something you generally talk about, the symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
“My close family and friends knew, but nobody else knew at the club. I found it difficult, making up stories for reasons why I wasn’t at training, why I was looking ill, why I was feeling ill and why I was rushing off to the bathroom.
“Basically lying to people’s faces. Once I started talking about it and making it public knowledge, it was such a relief; it was the best thing I did.”
Following an operation in January 2013, he staged a remarkable comeback, making his return in a 3-0 triumph over Aston Villa that December. Under Louis van Gaal’s leadership in 2014, he was even appointed vice-captain.
The former Scotland skipper departed United in 2015 for West Brom. His stint there lasted until 2017, when he moved to Stoke City.
Two years on, he started his coaching badges after leaving the Potters.
When the pandemic struck, Fletcher recognised that he likely wouldn’t return to playing due to his condition placing him at heightened risk from Covid, bringing his on-field career to a close. Following this challenging decision, he returned to United to mentor the under-16s.
Just last year, he was appointed to the role of Under-18s coach, and following Amorim’s departure, he will now temporarily lead the senior team.
