Darren Fletcher hopes to convince Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson that he is the ball winner the Reds need in the middle of the park. "I've always believed in my ability," he told the Manchester Evening News,: "It is difficult when you are a young player coming through at Manchester United.

"You are surrounded by top midfielders - Roy Keane, Nicky Butt and Paul Scholes.

"When my chances came it was in the wide right area and that wasn't a natural position for me.

"But this season I've had a long run in central midfield and my game has improved because of that.

"I am a central midfielder and that's where I want to be, I enjoy playing there and it brings out the best in me."

Fletcher's stock has risen considerably since his absence was felt so profoundly in United's Champions League final defeat.

"With a run of games your performances improve and it is as simple as that," he said. "Sometimes you can go, in previous seasons, six weeks, eight weeks and then have to come in and perform. It is difficult.

"But when you get a run of games playing Saturday and Wednesday, your form improves, your touch is there and everything about your game is at it's top level because it has to be. Your performances improve.

"There are always doubters in football, even if you have a good season. It is part and parcel of football. You've just got to hope that your teammates and the manager appreciate you.

"That's all you've got to do. Obviously it is nice to get recognition from other places, but as long as your manager appreciates you and your fellow players know what job you are doing, that is all any player can ask.

"As long as the lads know I am doing my job, the things that go unnoticed and are unseen by the fans. As long as the staff and the manager know, that is fine by me."