DARREN FLETCHER’S job boost at Manchester United will send shivers through the Stoke bench.
Former United midfielder Fletcher joined Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s coaching staff in January.
And he has now stepped up into a new technical director role.
He is known to be an admirer of Stoke’s talented centre-half Nathan Collins, 19, from his time with the Potters.
Fletcher spent two years at the Bet365 Stadium while Collins was coming through the club’s academy.
The youngster made his debut in the same season Fletcher called time on his playing career in 2019.
The 6 foot 4 Irishman is one of the most hotly-tipped defenders in the Championship, having made 27 appearances for Michael O’Neill’s men this season.
And he has been in impressive form with the Potters hovering around mid-table in the Championship.
Now it seems that he may make a huge jump with Fletcher keen on making his mark on United transfer policy straight away.
One of the club’s top priorities is finding a long-term partner for Harry Maguire, with Victor Lindelof slammed by pundits this season.
CASINO SIGN UP OFFER: CLAIM UP TO £800 IN CASINO BONUS CASH
Collins, who has captained Ireland at youth level, may fit the bill.
Fletcher only landed the promotion this week, with Old Trafford chief Ed Woodward delighted to see the ex-Scotland star lead the club’s vision for the future.
He said: “These are hugely important appointments that reinforce the progress we have been making as a club in recent years in our relentless pursuit of success.
“We have already made great strides forward in the way we run our football operations, and the benefits are visible in the resurgent pipeline of Academy talent reaching the first team and through our improved recruitment record.”
He continued: “Darren’s stellar achievements as a player and his own journey from Academy to Premier League and Champions League winner means he naturally commands respect and understands this vital part of the club’s DNA.
“In this new role, the first in our history, he will deliver technical advice across all aspects of the football department as well as contributing to the communication and delivery of our football philosophy across all areas of the club.”
Meanwhile, big earner Sam Clucas is set to be a casualty of the Potters’ end-of-season wage cull.
