Manchester United full-back Rafael da Silva has spoken of his delight following Darren Fletcher's return to senior action.

Scotland international Fletcher had not featured for United since Boxing Day last year because of a chronic bowel condition.

It has resulted in reports that he may be forced to retire, but the 29-year-old came off the bench during yesterday's 3-0 victory away at Aston Villa.

"It was a special moment for everyone and for Fletch, I was really waiting for him to come back. He's helped me a lot since I arrived at the club, he's one of my biggest friends here. He's such a good player, and a good guy - I'm glad he's back," the Brazilian defender told MUTV.

"You can see with the way he runs for the other players and the way he played, everyone needs a player like him. He's got his fitness back and has been playing for the reserves, he's been coming back slowly but I hope he can now play as many games as possible."

Fletcher's illness has limited him to just 21 appearances in the last three seasons.