Darren Fletcher praises 'tough' Nick Powell

Manchester United midfielder Darren Fletcher believes that Nick Powell's stint in the lower leagues will help lead his teammate to success in the future.

The 18-year-old moved to Old Trafford in the summer after joining from newly-promoted League One outfit Crewe Alexandra in deal that could cost up to £6m.

Fletcher feels that Powell's experience in League Two will help the striker in the long run.

"Playing in the lower leagues as a teenager will have hardened him up," said Fletcher. "In some ways it is a better grounding because you get toughened up.

"You play with and against good experienced pros in the lower leagues, players who are going to kick you. You have to learn how to survive.

"It may not be the grounding in terms of what you expect of a Manchester United player but you are playing in games that matter so mentally and physically it is hard."

United host Queens Park Rangers on Saturday.