Darren Fletcher has confessed that assuming the reins at Manchester United feels utterly "surreal" and represents something he never imagined possible.
The 41-year-old former midfielder has been elevated from his position overseeing the Under-18s to serve as caretaker manager following Ruben Amorim's dismissal on Monday after fourteen months in charge at Old Trafford.
"It's an amazing honour to be able to lead a Manchester United team. I don't think in my wildest dreams that was something that could happen," Fletcher remarked during his press conference at Carrington on Tuesday evening.
He acknowledged the circumstances were not what he would have wished for, yet expressed immense pride at the opportunity.
Darren Fletcher has admitted he is shocked to lead United
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Fletcher confirmed he has already held initial discussions with director of football Jason Wilcox, though any substantive conversations regarding his longer-term prospects will be postponed until after Wednesday's fixture at Turf Moor.
"I've had a conversation and the focus was on this game. We'll speak after the game," he explained.
The Scot made clear his immediate priorities lie squarely with preparation for the Burnley encounter.
"I've got a game to prepare for, a training session to organise, and speak to players. The focus has been on the Burnley match and we'll speak after the game," Fletcher added, declining to be drawn on speculation about an extended tenure.
The former United midfielder is understood to be among several candidates under consideration for the interim head coach position through to the season's conclusion.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Omar Berrada and Jason Wilcox have not had everything their own way at United
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Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Michael Carrick and Ruud van Nistelrooy are also reportedly in the frame for the temporary role.
Fletcher will be supported on the touchline by Under-21s coaches Travis Binnion and Alan Wright for the Burnley clash.
Additionally, Jonny Evans has returned to the club in a coaching capacity, having departed his loan manager position in December.
Fletcher's twin sons Jack and Tyler have featured on the fringes of the first-team squad in recent matches.
Captain Bruno Fernandes and Mason Mount are set to rejoin the squad for the trip to Burnley, though both will be limited in their playing time as they recover from injury.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has admitted he would love to return to United | PAWhen pressed on whether his sons might feature in the matchday squad, Fletcher remained coy, stating he would not disclose team information.
The caretaker boss outlined his vision for how he wishes his side to perform.
"Hopefully it looks like a Manchester United team that represents a bit of me," he said. "A team that fans can be proud of and I can be proud of."
Man Utd legend Darren Fletcher will take charge of the team on an interim basis | GETTYFletcher emphasised his role is to provide the players with a platform to demonstrate their quality.