4 days ago
1
Former Premier League manager Tony Pulis, who had Darren Fletcher under his charge at West Bromwich Albion, has no doubt the Manchester United interim boss will be a success in the dugout.
People ask me about players I've worked with and people who have been an influence in my teams. At all of my clubs there were some big influences in the dressing room, and I liked strong characters.
Advertisement
Fletch was definitely one of those. He was a gentleman, a top professional, and he led by example. He's not a shouter or a hollerer, but he knew the game so well.
During his time at The Hawthorns he played in all the Premier League teams I picked while I was West Brom manager.
He started all but one of those 91 games, and during that spell he started 86 consecutive league games for us, which was a record for any active player at that time.
His influence on and off the pitch was fantastic and, although his glory years at United were over, he provided the leadership we needed to take the Albion to a top-10 finish in the Premier League.
Advertisement
The club had some brilliant players and plenty of other strong characters, yet I'm sure not one of them would have had a bad word to say about their captain.
The leadership and man-management skills he will need now at United were clear to see then. He was a great lad to have around off the pitch but was not afraid to speak his mind to me either.
He would always debate my tactics if he felt it was right to do so, and at times showed a steely backbone when needed.
I believe that, given the chance, and given the time, Fletch can become a top candidate for the permanent job - if United decide to take a deep breath and give him a fair chance to show what he is capable of.
Advertisement
He is United through and through, so will know the task in hand and will not be afraid to make hard decisions.
Many years ago, another young Scot took charge at Old Trafford. Sir Alex was backed because the people at the club believed in him.
Given time, Fletch could be what United fans have been waiting for too.
English (US) ·