Darren Fletcher close to comeback

ir Alex Ferguson is on the verge of welcoming back one of his "big game" players as he prepares to face an Everton side missing key men of their own.

Midfield powerhouse Darren Fletcher has missed the recent action due to a virus but he could return in 10 days' time as a gripping season enters its final, crucial phase.

"Darren Fletcher’s back training now. He’s had a good week. He may be available in 10 days' time," said Sir Alex.

"He’ll be a very, very important player to come back. Darren’s excelled in big games and important games over the years because he’s got the knowledge and the discipline to carry out whatever job you want him to do. That’s the value he brings to the team. When he does come back, he’ll go straight into the team."

Although this weekend's clash will come too soon for Fletcher, Sir Alex will be able to recall Rafael if required following the right-back's return to fitness. The manager's only injury concern is Dimitar Berbatov's slight groin strain. "We'll see what he's like today in view of tomorrow," said the boss in reference to the Bulgarian striker.

Meanwhile Everton will arrive at Old Trafford on a good run of form, despite being without some stellar names.

"Everton have done exceptionally well, considering that David Moyes has had a mountain of injuries in the last few weeks," said Sir Alex.

"He’s been without Fellaini, Arteta, Cahill and Saha but they’ve still been turning out results.

"Games against Everton are never going to be easy because it’s a local derby in a way. But our home record has been fantastic this season, performance levels have been fantastic, and hopefully that will continue tomorrow."

Another home victory would, of course, nudge United closer to the title. Sir Alex said:

"If we win tomorrow we’ll have a minimum lead of six points with only four games left. That’s the way I’m looking at it. You run out of games eventually. I’m not looking beyond tomorrow."

As for the presence of reigning champions Chelsea now in second place, he added:

"You have to recognise who’s behind you and you can’t become complacent. I think it’s good to know that someone’s behind you. In that sense, we’ll use our experience of past years in situations like this and hopefully get what we want out of it."