Darren Fletcher is set to return to the Manchester United side on Tuesday night with Sir Alex Ferguson delighted his fellow Scot's industry is now receiving full acclaim.

For many years, the 25-year-old midfielder remained a peripheral figure at Old Trafford, with most fans questioning why he remained at the club.

But over the past 18 months, the Dalkeith-born star has become one of the most influential members of Ferguson's squad.

Fletcher's absence was cited as the major reason for United's UEFA Champions League capitulation in Rome last May and the same assessment was made recently when Liverpool enjoyed a rare day of success in their miserable recent run.

"Most people now recognise Darren Fletcher as a big-game player," said Ferguson. "We have been aware of that for quite a while. Now he is getting an acceptance that he is a very important player for us.

"Our fans see that he is a key player in major games. That has been very important to the lad because it gives him a confidence. He has been missed in some key games recently and yes, it is great to have the boy back."