The West Bromwich Albion midfielder is no longer at the top of his game.
According to a recent report from the Telegraph, Darren Fletcher is in line for a one-year contract extension at West Bromwich Albion, but despite his obvious leadership qualities that is not news that should be welcomed by the majority of Baggies fans.
The Scotland international has always been something of an underrated talent. However his peak days are well and truly behind him, and despite featuring in all of the club’s games so far this season his time at the top is coming to an end.
As a leader Fletcher is second to none, but West Brom need fresh legs in the centre of the park, a younger, more effective box-to-box player who can protect the back-line while also setting up attacks at the opposite end of the field.
Fletcher may only be 32, but his performances this season speak of a player who is fading, and while that is to be expected at some point in every footballer’s career, it is not the time to negotiate fresh terms on a new deal, as is being suggested in the Telegraph.
Fletcher could still be an effective bit-part player in years to come, but West Brom manager Tony Pulis should be thinking about moves for new faces rather than considering fresh rewards for old ones.
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