Contract extensions for United duo - Sport in brief - Evening Standard
       

Contract extensions for United duo

Manchester United have received a double dose of good news with Paul Scholes and Darren Fletcher agreeing new contracts.

Scholes has signed a one-year deal, while Fletcher has committed himself to Old Trafford for a further three seasons.

It is a show of faith from Sir Alex Ferguson, who said: "Paul is proof that if you look after yourself you can carry on playing and be rewarded at a club of this size."

He added: "He is (almost) 34 now and he has been here since he was 14. That tells you the desire and the ability he has to stay at the top."

"Darren is in the same vein as Paul, Ryan Giggs and Wes Brown in that he is a long-serving member of the team," said Ferguson.

"His consistency and level-headed approach is a great attribute and we are all delighted he has signed a new contract."

In his own typically understated way, Scholes, who has overcome a serious eye injury that three years ago threatened his career, expressed his satisfaction at remaining with what seems certain to be his only professional club.

"It is great to sign a new deal," he said.

"Last season was fantastic but you always want to achieve more and with this team we are capable of doing just that."

Fletcher added: "When you play at such a great club with a great team you always want to be a part of that. The spirit here is amazing and I am happy that I can play my part in achieving more success."

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