‘He’s a big-game player’ — Sir Alex Ferguson believes Scott McTominay can be Man Utd’s ‘new Darren Fletcher’

Manchester United immortal Sir Alex Ferguson has likened Scott McTominay’s progression at the club to that of Darren Fletcher.

McTominay, 24, has really come into his own this season as a reliable stalwart in the heart of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s midfield, excelling in a double pivot with Fred.

The towering enforcer has featured 43 times this season as The Red Devils currently sit second in the Premier League and face a tantalising Europa League semi-final showdown with Roma next week.

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The likes of Bruno Fernandes, Luke Shaw and Marcus Rashford have been deservedly showered in praise this campaign, but legendary former tactician Ferguson has been particularly impressed by McTominay’s rise to prominence.

Alongside Fred, the duo have worked impressively in tandem to harmonise Solskjaer’s midfield, providing the defence with adequate protection, while collectively functioning as a launchpad for attacking moves.

McTominay has gone on to establish himself as a regular starter for Scotland under Steve Clarke as well, even playing as part of a back-three at times, and Ferguson has heaped praise on the versatile midfielder’s work ethic, believing he shares similar qualities with a former student of his, Fletcher.

Speaking to the official YouTube channel of the Scotland national team ahead Euro 2020, Ferguson said: “And McTominay is now emerging as one of Man Utd’s big players.

“When you watch Man Utd pick a team for a big game, McTominay is in it. Good character, great trainer, I know a little bit about the boy.

“I signed him when he was seven or eight. He was actually a centre-forward as a kid. He has sprouted, a little bit like Darren (Fletcher) when he first came.

“McTominay is a similar type as Darren, long, lanky, good winner of the ball, good turn of pace going forward, great attitude to the game.

“All the attributes that Darren had, McTominay has got them. We seldom left Darren out for big games, particularly against Arsenal, he had no problems dealing with Patrick Vieira, and McTominay is following those guidelines.

“It’s really rewarding for me to see a Scot coming through.”