MANCHESTER UNITED ANNOUNCED on Thursday that midfielder Darren Fletcher will miss the remainder of the season after undergoing surgery to cure his chronic bowel condition.
The Scot has been suffering from ulcerative colitis for close to two years and missed the majority of last season with the condition.
However, despite hopes he could resume his role in the heart of United’s midfield when he returned to the side in Septermber, the 28-year-old has made just two substitute appearances since starting against Reading on December 1.
“Darren Fletcher will be unavailable for the remainder of this season having undergone surgery to resolve his ulcerative colitis condition,” United revealed in a statement on Thursday.
“We wish to stress this was a planned procedure undertaken at the optimal time having achieved a period of sustained good general health, as illustrated by the fact that Darren has trained with the team regularly this season and been available for selection right up to the operation.
“Whilst it is frustrating for both Darren and the club that he won’t be able to contribute further during this campaign, this decision has been taken with our full support in the best interests of his long term health and we look forward to him returning next season with this problem firmly behind him.
“We would be grateful if his privacy could be respected at this time and in the coming months in order to aid his recuperation.”
United fans will hope the Scotland midfielder can make a full recovery.
Additional reporting by AFP.
