New Scotland coach Gordon Strachan has offered his support to captain Darren Fletcher as he undergoes surgery for a chronic bowel condition.

Manchester United confirmed on Thursday that the 28-year-old would miss the rest of the season as they look to resolve the ulcerative colitis that has plagued the midfielder since December 2011.

"On behalf of the Scotland supporters, the national squad and backroom team, I wish Darren the best of luck in his recovery from the surgery that has been confirmed by his club," Strachan said in a statement.

"In the meantime, I have stressed to him that, as captain, he remains an integral part of the international setup and that he is welcome to join up with the squad at any time during his recovery."

Fletcher has been capped 61 times for Scotland following his debut in 2003.