Struck down! Fears over Manchester United star Fletcher as he is floored by virus - Daily Mail

By Dominic King Last updated at 10:22 PM on 31st March 2011

Darren Fletcher is in danger of missing the crucial stage of Manchester United's season as concerns grow over when the midfielder will be fit to play again.

Fletcher has been at the club's Carrington training ground only once in the last three weeks for a doctor's check-up, with manager Sir Alex Ferguson putting his absence down to a virus.

The 27-year-old is suffering from a stomach problem that one source has described as 'serious'.

Laid low: Manchester United's Darren Fletcher is suffering with a stomach complaint

United have been alarmed at his rapid weight loss and lack of energy since he came down with a temperature on the eve of United's defeat by Liverpool on March 6. He was a substitute at Anfield, playing for the last seven minutes, but that was his last appearance.

Doctors have advised him to stay away from Carrington and recuperate until they can get to the root of the problem.

He was hoping to return to training in some capacity this week but that plan has been put on hold.

Having already missed three games, it appears Fletcher is no nearer a return and that will come as a huge blow to United as they head into a critical fortnight in search of the Treble.

They take on West Ham and Fulham in the Barclays Premier League looking to stay top of the table, meet Chelsea twice in their Champions League quarter-final and face Manchester City at Wembley in the last four of the FA Cup.

Injury doubt: Edwin van der Sar may miss the trip to West Ham after an injury in training

Another worry for Ferguson is that goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar was injured in training and has been rated doubtful for Saturday's trip to Upton Park.

There is better news for United, however, with Anderson close to a return following his knee injury. Owen Hargreaves' shoulder injury is not as bad as first feared.

United's bid to replace Van der Sar with Atletico Madrid's David de Gea moved a step closer when the player's agent confirmed that talks have taken place.

Sportsmail revealed exclusively earlier this month that Ferguson had chosen De Gea to be his new No 1.

United are ready to pay the 18million release clause in the 20-year-old's contract and the only stumbling block appears to be whether he agrees to a move to England.

His agent Hector Rincon said: 'We did have talks with United but first they always look for an agreement with the club.'

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