Fletcher started Manchester united's Boxing Day match against Hull, playing 60 minutes before being substituted.

Fletcher's availability is a big boost to Manchester United, as the team's list of injuries and suspensions grow. Fletcher started Thursday's match and looked calm and confident despite just recently returning to action.

Scotland manager Gordon Strachan said the national side would monitor Fletcher's return to action closely before recalling him to the team, reports Sky Sports.

Scotland, like Manchester United, could use an extra option in midfield, and Fletcher's return from nearly a year out is an exciting prospect. Strachan said that he would not rush the midfielder back to international action.

Fletcher said he is confident that his fitness issues are now behind him after making a return to the Premier League after nearly a year out of action, reports Sky Sports.

Fletcher made 13 appearances last season as he continued to deal with his chronic bowel issues. He also took an extended break in late 2011, but said he is back for good this time.

Fletcher came on for Ryan Giggs in the 70th minute of Manchester United's 3-0 win over Aston Villa on Sunday.

Fletcher returned after nearly a full year off the pitch due to a chronic bowel condition that has affected him for much of the last three years. He had been working his way back to match fitness with United's U-21 squad, and it appears he is finally ready to contribute again.

Fletcher (illness) played another 90 minutes for the Manchester United U21 side as he continues to build fitness for a return to Premier League action, reports the Daily Mail.

Manager David Moyes said that Fletcher needed more games to rebuild his fitness before he selects the midfielder for a return to the first team. This is the second full match Fletcher has played since November.

Manchester United manager David Moyes said he feels that Fletcher needs more action with the reserve side before making his full return, reports Goal.com.

Fletcher has been battling a serious bowel infection, and just recently started playing reserve matches again. He hasn't played for the first team for nearly a year, but United continue to avoid putting a date on his return.

Fletcher played a full 90 minutes for the Under-21 squad against Stoke as he continues his return from a bowel condition, reports the Daily Mail.