FLETCH UP FOR RAZZLE DAZZLE

... now the United old boy has got over the shock of being asked, but even he admits: I know this place and I can do the boss job

- BY STEVEN RAILSTON

DARREN FLETCHER has admitted he was surprised when Manchester United chiefs threw him into the Old Trafford hot seat.

But the Scot insists his years of experience at the club have primed him for the biggest test of his career.

The former United midfielder, 41, was parachuted in after Ruben Amorim's exit taking charge against Burnley and now preparing for a crunch FA Cup clash with Brighton. Today is possibly his last stand before the club name a new interim boss.

While fans debate whether Fletcher should get the job full-time until the summer, the Scot revealed that the call came completely out of the blue.

"I was surprised I even got asked for the two games," Fletcher confessed. "It wasn't on my radar at all."

Once the shock wore off, confidence kicked in.

"I know this place. I know the environment. I believe in myself," he said - words that will strike a chord with supporters craving someone who 'gets' United.