Scotland captain Darren Fletcher praised for bouncing back from West Brom criticism

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West Brom manager Tony Pulis has praised Scotland captain Darren Fletcher for bouncing back from criticism from the club’s own supporters.

Baggies fans greeted the midfielder’s substitution during the 4-0 defeat to Manchester City earlier this month with sarcastic cheers.

Former Manchester United stalwart Fletcher has conceded himself that he has struggled to replicate last season’s form, and said he needs to focus more on himself rather than try to help out others.

However, Fletcher, who earned his 77th cap in the recent 3-0 World Cup qualifying defeat to England, answered his critics with a dominant display and a goal in Monday’s 4-0 thrashing of Burnley and Pulis has paid tribute to the 32-year-old for not letting the flak affect him.

Pulls, speaking to the Birmingham Mail, said: “Fletch is old enough, ugly enough, strong enough to get through all of that.

”That happens and you have to accept that in sport today.

“You’re going to get criticism as well as praise. You have to take the two the same and Darren’s experienced enough to do that.

“I’m pleased to see him on the scoresheet and I’m pleased with the result.”