• Champions League

Fletcher tipped to miss final start

ESPN staff
May 20, 2011
Darren Fletcher has had a season frustrated by illness © PA Photos
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Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has spoken of the "horrible" decision he has to make ahead of the Champions League final, with reports suggesting Darren Fletcher will miss out on a starting place against Barcelona next Saturday.

United are looking to cap a stunning season by adding Champions League glory to their Premier League crown.

A host of star names could be forced to kick their heels on the sidelines and the Manchester Evening News is reporting Fletcher will be one of the unlucky ones. He has played just 23 minutes of first-team football since March on account of illness and despite being likely to face Blackpool on Sunday, his sharpness is a cause of concern for Ferguson.

It will be a huge blow to Fletcher, as he missed the 2009 final defeat to Barcelona on account of suspension.

"I've not entirely picked it yet but I've got the nucleus who deserve a place," Ferguson said. "I've got others who deserve places as well but you can only pick XI. That's the horrible part of a cup final. It's agony and it's something you don't relish but I have to do it.

"I have to pick a team and leave some very good players out. But, hopefully, those who've played a part in the European campaign this season will feel satisfaction at the end of the night at Wembley and we will win the cup."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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