Interim Manchester United manager Darren Fletcher has chosen to keep his cards close to his chest regarding his long-term future at the club, stating his complete focus is on the immediate task: the Premier League fixture against Burnley at Old Trafford.
"All Happened Very Quickly": Fletcher's Immediate Focus
The 41-year-old, who was unexpectedly thrust into the managerial hot seat, addressed the media in a pre-match press conference on Wednesday. He revealed that the rapid nature of his appointment left no room for thoughts about anything beyond the upcoming game. "Honestly, it is not what I have thought about," Fletcher stated when questioned about his tenure. "Focusing on Burnley, that discussion is for after the game. It has all happened so quickly, so all my concentration is on Burnley."
He elaborated on the whirlwind sequence of events that led to his interim role, explaining the intense preparation required in a short span. "It all happened very quickly on Monday with a game to prepare and a quick turnaround, training session to organise, and speak to the players," the former midfielder said. He emphasised the need to give the Burnley match the respect it deserved, highlighting the challenge of preparing the team adequately in such limited time.
Speculation Swirls Around Permanent Appointment
Fletcher's temporary ascension comes amidst a period of significant turbulence for the Red Devils. His appointment followed shortly after the club parted ways with manager Ruben Amorim, a decision made in the wake of United's 1-1 draw against Leeds United at Elland Road.
While Fletcher steers the ship for now, intense speculation continues regarding who will guide the team for the remainder of the season. Reports suggest the club's hierarchy is actively considering bringing back former manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in an interim capacity. The broader plan appears to involve installing a temporary manager before securing a permanent solution in the summer transfer window.
Fletcher Keeps Team Selection, Including Sons, Under Wraps
Adding a personal layer to his professional challenge, Fletcher, who also serves as United's Under-18 manager, was quizzed about the potential involvement of his two sons, Jack and Tyler Fletcher, in the matchday squad against Burnley. True to his cautious approach, he declined to reveal any team details.
"That would be disclosing team information before the game, and I am not going to do that," he asserted. He confirmed that his sons were part of the training group on Monday, an arrangement predating his appointment, and have been around the senior squad recently. However, with players returning from injury and a need to assess the squad's fitness due to the tight schedule, their inclusion remains uncertain. "They are in the periphery squad, but whether they make the match squad, I don't know yet; that remains to be seen," Fletcher concluded, leaving all possibilities open as he navigates his first major test in the dugout.
