West Brom defender Jonny Evans has branded captain Darren Fletcher as an intelligent leader who has been central towards the club’s successes this season.
A spectacular 3-1 win over Arsenal just before the international break helped West Brom move up to eighth in the Premier league table. Fletcher was instrumental in this victory, as he marshalled his team from the centre of the park. He was able to keep on top of every proceeding in the 90 minutes. Thus, he ensured that West Brom gave no opportunities for Arsenal to come back into the match. West Brom had scored from a counter-attack and two set pieces.
Evans had the experience of being alongside Fletcher in the squad when he was at Manchester United. He says that the 33-year-old has really been an outstanding leader in the dressing room and on the pitch. His experience of playing under a great manager Sir Alex Ferguson has provided him with knowledge about when to put the arm around the shoulder and when to be authoritative.
This has had a positive effect on the team, according to Evans. West Brom have been one of the most improved teams in the league, as they have been able to keep Fletcher in the first-team longer than expected. The Scotland captain was plagued by personal issues when he joined West Brom in the summer of 2014.
“People talk about leaders but people can lead in different ways. You don’t always have to be a ranter and raver and go into tackles.Look at Fletch. He’s a very intelligent guy who will lead in his own way as opposed to other captains I’ve played with but he’s very good at it and everyone respects him.We’ve played really well at home. We’ve enjoyed that this season, scoring goals.The fans have been behind us and I think they’re enjoying it too,” said Evans.