Levein’s support for Fletcher

SCOTLAND boss Craig Levein still believes Darren Fletcher will lead his country’s assault on the 2014 World Cup — despite being forced to take an extended break.

Manchester United revealed that Fletcher had compromised his recovery from a chronic bowel complaint to play for club and country. The 27–year–old’s situation had previously been described by the club as “a virus”.

“I am obviously absolutely devastated for Darren, because I know how hard he has worked to get back to playing regularly,” said Levein. “He is a central part of our plans for the World Cup 2014 qualifiers but at this stage his health is paramount.”