David Moyes boost as Darren Fletcher battles back for Manchester United

Darren Fletcher: Midfielder made return to action for the Under-21s (PA)

Manchester United midfielder Darren Fletcher has taken a big step forward in his recovery from a debilitating bowel condition, according to his manager David Moyes. The Scotland midfielder, 29, was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis in December 2011 and made his first appearance for United at any level in 10 months on Monday, playing 67 minutes for the Under-21s.

He did return to make 10 appearances for United, as well as three for Scotland, last season but his comeback was put on hold as he underwent surgery in January. "It is great to get Darren back," said Moyes. "It was the first time he pulled on a jersey in a competitive reserve league game [since the operation] and we're really pleased. We'll bring him along, his training is coming along well, but we don't want to do anything that might give him a setback."

Moyes added that he was aware of the desire within the game to see Fletcher, a former United trainee, back in action soon. The Scot said: "I think with the nature of his illness, everyone should be hoping he comes back. It is the sort of thing that, whatever walk of life you are in, you want to see people make recoveries from illness or other things that are wrong with them.

"Darren has shown that with the right medical treatment, by looking after yourself and doing the right training, you can get back to where you were."

PA