FLETCHER ON LIFE AT OLD TRAFFORD

Last updated : 02 May 2004 By Editor

"Walter Smith has got the tempo up in sessions and all the lads respected him the minute he walked through the door.

"Roy Keane and Ryan Giggs recognised what he did for Rangers, and know he worked hard for Everton, even if it didn’t happen there. He hasn’t come in and started bossing everyone, but he hasn’t been scared to b*ll*ck us at half-time. When the manager has left the room he will come in and have his say on things."


"I’ve heard a lot about Liam Miller from John O’Shea, who rates him highly.

"I’ve seen a few Champions League games on telly and he did very well. I know that everyone up here has been raving about him and if the manager thinks he is good enough quality for Manchester United then I’m sure he’ll come down and prove a success.

"People are talking of him as Roy Keane’s successor but that’s a lot of pressure to put on someone so young. Roy is the fans’ legend, the fans’ idol. I think that Liam will be a good player for United. Who knows, maybe one day me and him will be the centre of midfield?"


On his place being taken from a new recruit: "I don’t ignore the signings talk.

"Obviously United are going to buy world-class players. Every team needs those to progress. It is not something I lose sleep worrying about. I’m confident in my own ability and that, in the future, I’ll be a big part of United and a first-team regular.

"This (being in the middle) gives me an extra boost going on to the park."

"It is the position I have played all my life. I know it better than any other. All of these things have just come together and helped me in my performances of late."