Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has confirmed Darren Fletcher will not play again this season.

Fletcher is currently suffering with a chronic bowel complaint and has not featured for United since November.

United confirmed in December that they were giving Fletcher an extended break after news of his illness emerged.

Ferguson is refusing to rush Fletcher back as he wants him back to full fitness for next season and the Scotland international will now be absent for the rest of the campaign.

"I don't expect Fletcher to come back," said Ferguson.

"Darren will be out for the season."