Scotland manager Gordon Strachan has hinted that Darren Fletcher could soon return to first-team football.

The Manchester United midfielder has been plagued with a chronic bowel problem in recent seasons and has made just seven starts in two years.

Strachan has made no secret that he wants his captain to return as soon as possible and spoke to Fletcher last week.

"I really enjoyed the phone call," Strachan told The Scotsman.

"You would have to speak to Manchester United and Darren about his progress but yes, I did really enjoy the phone call."

It is believed that Fletcher has been training well and could return to action for United before the end of the month.