Darren Fletcher says his former idol David Beckham will receive a hero’s welcome from the Manchester United support when he steps out at Old Trafford for the first time since his departure in 2003. Beckham will return to his former stomping ground with AC Milan on Champions League duty, a match you can see on STV and online on Wednesday March 10 from 7.30pm.
"As a youngster at Manchester United he was one of the players you looked up to," Fletcher said at the pre-match press conference.
"Alongside Paul Scholes, Ryan Giggs and Roy Keane, David Beckham was one of those. Obviously he's moved on from here and still had a successful career, and is still battling for a place in the World Cup squad for England.
"So I'm sure he'll be welcomed back to Old Trafford and the fans will give him a great reaction like in Milan."
Since the days of being a youngster in thrall to Beckham and his gifted team-mates, Fletcher has established himself in a team that has enjoyed continued success since Beckham’s departure. The Scot has become a fixture in Manchester united’s midfield and, like the Milan star, has gone on to captain his country.
Fletcher, who will lead Scotland in Euro 2012 qualifying, still believes the Champions League is the pinnacle of the club game. Playing in Europe’s premier competition has enhanced the midfielder’s game and him turn around sections of the United support who did not believe he was up to the task several years ago.
"You can't beat the occasion of the Champions League," he added.
"It's the competition that all players want to play in. You're pitting yourselves against the best teams in Europe, the best players in Europe, and I think you've got to try and rise to that challenge."
The midfielder said he was confident ahead of the Milan tie and was boosted by the news that Wayne Rooney would be fit to play. Rooney has succeeded Beckham in being the poster boy for Manchester United and has done so on the back of a season where he has revelled in being given a central striking role.
"I don't think Wayne's changed. I think he's matured and he's improved as a player," Fletcher enthused.
"He's really risen to the challenge this year of being the goalscorer and his performances have improved.
"He's got stronger as the season's went on because his confidence has grown. He really does believe he's up there with the best players in the world."
