Fletcher relishing Vieira challenge
Fletcher and Scotland will hope for a battling performance in Paris
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Monday, 10, Sep 2007 01:11
Stand-in Scotland captain Darren Fletcher has revealed he is relishing the chance to pit his wits against France midfielder Patrick Vieira.
The former Arsenal holding player will line-up against Fletcher, a Manchester United regular, on Wednesday in a match that could be crucial to both teams' chances of qualifying for Euro 2008.
And the Scot says he intends to "rise to the challenge" posed by the Inter Milan star.
"I've played against Vieira a few times," Fletcher said.
"He's a world-class player but that's who you want to pit yourself against."
The 23-year-old Fletcher, who deuptised for suspended skipper Barry Ferguson in Saturday's 3-1 victory over Lithuania at Hampden Park, will give up the armband for the trip to Paris.
But he called on his team-mates to continue where they left off in scoring twice in the final 15 minutes to see off a decent Baltic side.
"I think most of the lads will be the same and wanting to go out there and compete, Fletcher continued.
"Yes, they are big names but you can't treat them like that. You have to treat them as a team and hold no fears. We won't dominate France but we can compete with them.
"It's about playing the match and not the occasion. But while it will be a difficult game, I don't think it will shape our group in the end. Anything we can get, points-wise, will be a bonus."