Fletcher & Vermaelen make returns

Darren Fletcher and Thomas Vermaelen made their returns to action in Manchester United's reserve clash with Arsenal.

Scotland international Fletcher had a 45-minute run-out as United's second string drew 0-0 with their Gunners counterparts at Old Trafford.

Fletcher had been out of action with a virus since playing in the Premier League leaders' defeat by Liverpool at Anfield on 6th March.

Speaking after the game, he told MUTV: "It's great to be back and to get the minutes under my belt.

"I think that's a good positive thing for me. It's been a while and I just wanted to get back out there. Hopefully I can keep pushing forward and get myself back in the plans for the first team."

United and Arsenal meet in the Premier League at the Emirates on Sunday.

When asked if he was in contention for that one, Fletcher added: "I don't know. I'll see how I am tomorrow - I'm not going to rush it and set myself back."

Gunners boost

Vermaelen has been out of action for seven months with an Achilles problem.

The Belgium international last played for Arsenal on 28th August against Blackburn and he had a number of aborted comebacks this season.

The 25-year-old has been sorely missed in the heart of the Arsenal defence with the side's title challenge faltering this month.

It remains to be seen if Arsenal will take any chances on Vermaelen by including him back in the first-team before the end of the season.