By Chris O'Brien
April 23 2004

Darren Fletcher is delighted to have been involved in so many first-team games this season, and has admitted that he feels more comfortable in his new central midfield role. The Scottish international hopes this season can act as a springboard for his career at Old Trafford.

Manchester United midfielder Darren Fletcher hopes his recent run in the first-team will help him progress into a regular in the starting line-up for seasons to come.

Following an energetic display in midfield during the F.A Cup semi-final against Arsenal, Fletcher has kept his place in midfield with Sir Alex Ferguson playing the Scotsman in the unfamiliar centre-midfield role proving the versatility he has as a player.

The 20-year-old has had his fair share of critics this season, but the developments in his game are clear with Fletcher only making his Premiership debut a year ago. Having made 22 appearances for the United this season, it is clear that Sir Alex Ferguson now sees the eager Scot has an important member of the squad, and Fletcher wants to build on the progress he has made this season.

“It gave me a lot of confidence knowing that the manager could trust me in the semi-final match. Playing in a big game like that, especially in the centre of midfield, did give me added confidence. " said the midfielder.

“I think my future position is where the manager sees my future more than where I do. I prefer the middle but if I can do a job for the team on the right-hand side I’m more than happy to do that. “As long as I’m part of a Manchester United future that’s what is important to me.

“I played just two European Cup games last season and it’s quite a big jump from that to playing 22 matches. Next season I want to become a regular in the side and at this club you have to look to win the big trophies every season."