Carrick hails ‘on-fire’ Fletch

Manchester United 3, Everton 0

Michael Carrick has hailed Manchester United team–mate Darren Fletcher as one of the best midfielders in the Barclays Premier League.

Not long ago Fletcher was being vilified by his own supporters, who demanded his Old Trafford departure. But over the past 12 months the Scotland skipper’s star has risen rapidly.

His absence from the Champions League final in Rome was cited as one of the major reasons why Sir Alex Ferguson’s side were so badly overpowered by Barcelona and it is no real surprise to learn Fletcher has missed seven of United’s last nine defeats in all competitions.

Fletcher put United on the road to a comfortable 3–0 win over Everton with a stunning volley which curled past Tim Howard from 20 yards.

“Darren is one of the best midfielders around at the moment,” said Carrick.

“His performances are at the highest level and it is great to play alongside him. He really is on top of his game.”

Fletcher is going to be a pivotal figure over the next few months as United try to hunt down Chelsea —five points clear at the top of the table.