Levein offers Fletcher support

Scotland boss Craig Levein is ‘absolutely devastated’ Darren Fletcher has been forced into an extended leave of absence from football.

Fletcher’s club Manchester United announced on Tuesday that the midfielder has ‘accepted medical advice to take an extended break’ as he battles to overcome a bowel affliction.

Words of encouragement have begun to pour in from the football community for the 27-year-old, and now his national coach has given his support to his captain.

“I am obviously absolutely devastated for Darren because I know how hard he has worked to get back to playing regularly for his club and country,” Levein told BBC Sport.

“He is one of the most inspirational players I have had the pleasure of working with and, on behalf of his Scotland team-mates and my backroom staff, I sincerely hope this time off, allied to the support of his family, will enable him to make a full recovery.”

Levein is hopeful the midfielder will recover in time for his nation’s World Cup 2014 qualifiers, which begin in September 2012.

“Darren has shown tremendous dedication and fortitude, demonstrated by his ability to overcome this illness and perform at the highest level for Manchester United and Scotland,” the former Hearts manager said.

“I spoke with Sir Alex Ferguson and Darren this week and the most important thing, at this stage, is for the player to be given time to rest and recuperate. Nobody is more committed to his country’s cause than our captain.”

“He is a central part of our plans for the World Cup 2014 qualifiers but, at this stage, his health is paramount and I would like to reiterate the best wishes of everyone at involved with the national team and the Scottish FA.”