DARREN FLETCHER is Manchester United’s behind-the-scenes peacemaker as they try to get their top-four bid back on track.
The title-winning former midfielder is now the technical director at Old Trafford.
Darren Fletcher has been playing peacemaker between Manchester United aces and Ralf RangnickCredit
But in recent weeks he has taken on a role as mediator amid growing tensions between interim manager Ralf Rangnick and the players at the club’s Carrington training HQ.
German Rangnick, 63, is frustrated that the team has been unable to adapt to his pressing game.
And the players have not been buying into his coaching methods and tactics, along with those of his assistant Chris Armas.
Ex-Scotland international Fletcher, 38, is a very popular and highly respected figure at Carrington among both the players and manager, which is why his input is now so important.
Their demolition at the Etihad reopened old wounds in United’s camp, with divisions particularly between some senior players and young members of the squad.
Furious United superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, 37, flew off to Portugal without the manager’s knowledge after being axed from the starting line-up for the derby, later claiming he was suffering a recurrence of a hip injury.
Fellow frontman Marcus Rashford, 24, is also considering his future at the club having been named as a sub for the trip across Manchester, despite there being no other recognised striker available.
Cristiano Ronaldo and other Manchester United stars aren’t adapting to the coachingCredit: Getty
France midfielder Paul Pogba is also certain to leave in the summer on a free transfer.
Negotiations on a new deal for the 28-year-old have been shelved, adding to the uncertainty around the United camp. The Red Devils host Tottenham tomorrow in a huge fixture for both clubs in the battle for fourth spot.
Arsenal are one point clear of United but, crucially, have three games in hand.
Manchester United boss Ralf Rangnick is trying to implement his philosophy
But Antonio Conte’s hot-and-cold side have two games in hand on United and could leapfrog them with victory at Old Trafford.
While confidence is low at United, Spurs will go into the encounter on the back of Monday’s 5-0 drubbing of Everton.
It is against this unsettled backdrop that Fletcher is working hard to help refocus the camp.