Darren Fletcher makes surprise return for Manchester United

Darren Fletcher on his previous appearance for Manchester United against Benfica (GETTY IMAGES)

Darren Fletcher returned to action with Manchester United last night, making his first appearance since November last year.

The Scotland captain was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis, a chronic inflammatory bowel condition, an illness that meant no time frame could be put on his return.

There were even fears that the 28-year-old would never player again.

Yet Fletcher was sent on for the final 30 minutes of United's 2-1 defeat to Aberdeen in a benefit match for Dons legend Neil Simpson. It was his first appearance since a goal-scoring Champions League performance against Benfica on November 22.

Speaking ahead of Fletcher's return, Ferguson told MUTV: "It's been quiet progress for the boy.

"He joined in training a couple of weeks ago and it's one of those situations where you say: 'Let's see how he does because he has had a really difficult time in the last year'.

"Therefore, I wasn't really placing too much hope in it but let's see how he does.

"He's got to the stage now where he feels he needs a game. I let him join Scotland this week but he wanted a game so I said: 'Come to Aberdeen and join up afterwards'.

"I'll give him 20 to 25 minutes."

After coming on Aberdeen doubled their lead, before Anderson pulled one back for United.