Fletcher to take extended break because of illness

Manchester United says midfielder Darren Fletcher will take an extended break from football because of a bowel disease.

The 27-year-old Scotland international was out of action from March to September with a viral illness. United now says Fletcher "has, in fact, been suffering from ulcerative colitis," a chronic inflammatory bowel condition.

United adds that Fletcher will "take an extended break from the demands of training and playing in order to afford the best chance possible of achieving full remission once again."

Fletcher signed a new four-year deal with United in March, securing his place with the club until 2015.

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