Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has insisted that Darren Fletcher will be guaranteed a spot within the club, even if the midfielder fails to regain a healthy state.

The 28-year-old was forced out of action midway through last season due to a chronic bowel condition and the former Premier League champions are unsure whether the playmaker will return to the first team.

"He has not started training with us," said Ferguson. "He has obviously got great challenges ahead. We are happy to be patient but he won't be starting the season.

"It is unfortunate because he is such a magnificent professional and such a nice lad. If it doesn't work for him, he knows he has a position at the club anyway."

Meanwhile, the Red Devils unveiled new signings Shinji Kagawa and Nick Powell at Old Trafford today.