Manchester United Midfielder Admits Rooney Exit Worries

Manchester United midfielder Darren Fletcher admits there is genuine concern over the future of Wayne Rooney as the striker continues to be linked with a move away from Old Trafford.

The Premier League champions yesterday rejected a second approach from Chelsea for the England international - reportedly worth £30m - as United once again remained firm in their efforts to retain the services of their troubled striker.

But as reports suggest the 27-year-old is now ready to engineer a move away from the club by formally requesting another transfer grow, Fletcher is concerned Rooney's departure will strike a significant blow to United's hopes of retaining the Premier League title.

"It's not the type of thing I have asked him," Fletcher is quoted as saying by the Daily Mail. "You do worry he might leave because he's a fantastic football player.

"But we will leave that sort of thing to Wayne and the club. Me personally, I hope he stays because he has been fantastic for Manchester United and a big part of all we have achieved in the last nine, 10 years since I've been in the squad.

"In that respect I hope he stays and we achieve more things together for United."

Fletcher is currently working towards his return to the first team as he battles the ulcerative colitis that has plagued his career over the past two years.

Although Barcelona remain adamant their midfielder will not be sold, Cesc Fabregas remains linked with a move to United that could potentially see him line up alongside Fletcher in midfield next season.

Despite members of the Barcelona hierarchy and playing staff speaking confidently of the former Arsenal captain remaining in Cataluña, Fletcher would relish the opportunity to link up with the Spanish schemer.

"(Cesc) is a fantastic player and Manchester United are always linked with great players," Fletcher added. "Whether that happens remains to be seen but it is part and parcel of being at this club.

"They are always going to attract and sign big players that are going to add to the fantastic squad we have already got."