Darren Fletcher ruled out for season

Manchester United midfielder Darren Fletcher has been ruled out for the rest of the season following surgery to resolve his ulcerative colitis.

The 28-year-old has made a limited number of appearances for the Red Devils since he was diagnosed with the bowel condition in December 2011.

"We wish to stress this was a planned procedure undertaken at the optimal time having achieved a period of sustained good general health, as illustrated by the fact that Darren has trained with the team regularly this season and been available for selection right up to the operation," reads a statement on the club's official website.

Fletcher has scored one goal in 10 appearances for United this season.