Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has cast further doubts over Darren Fletcher’s career after confirming the midfielder won’t take part in the club’s pre-season programme.
The Scotland captain appears certain to miss the country’s opening World Cup 2014 qualifiers as he continues to battle a chronic bowel condition.
Fletcher hasn’t played for the Old Trafford side since December with Ferguson reiterating the player would be given "all the time he needs" to recover.
"He has not started training with us," confirmed the United boss.
And he hinted that the 28-year-old would be offered a new role at the club should his playing career be brought to a premature end.
"He has obviously got great challenges ahead
"We are happy to be patient but he won't be starting the season.
"It is unfortunate because he is such a magnificent professional and such a nice lad. If it doesn't work for him, he knows he has a position at the club anyway."
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