Darren Fletcher has no fitness concerns for Scotland
- Published
Darren Fletcher has said he has no doubts about his fitness for Scotland's Euro 2012 double-header despite a lack of competitive action.
The midfielder has only played two competitive games since the beginning of March after being hit by a virus.
But he dismissed claims his inclusion for the matches against the Czech Repubic and Lithuania is a risk.
"I feel as fit as I ever have, I feel strong. I have 53 caps so I know what to expect at this level," he said.
"I'm the captain - I feel I bring a lot to the team in terms of communication.
"Players have had one or two more matches than me but I don't believe that's a problem."
Fletcher, who has had to regain weight he lost when the mystery virus struck, is confident about facing both the Czechs on Saturday and Lithuania on Tuesday.
"First and foremost the Czech Republic game is the one but I don't envisage it being a problem playing both matches," the Scotland captain added.
"I feel as fit as I have done in more than a year. I've had a fantastic pre-season, it was more of a personal pre-season.
"I worked very hard and I've come through both reserve games without a problem."
Scotland manager Craig Levein warned last month that Fletcher would need to make "exceptional" progress to return to his squad but he is confident his skipper is ready.
"I have been assured by him and his club he is 100%," Levein said.
"On the evidence of training this week I can tell you that's true.
"He has not played for a while, certainly not at this level. But he has the experience at this level.
"Is he going to be fazed by playing a game at this level? Certainly not. So for me it's an easy decision.
"I have absolutely no concerns whatsoever, in fact it's a huge bonus for us to have Darren fit and available and ready to lead the team."
- Published5 September 2011
- Published2 September 2011
- Published2 September 2011