United will only need a single point in their final game against Basle if they take all three points against Benfica at Old Trafford to finish top of their group.
“You do want to finish top,” Fletcher said.
“First and foremost you look to qualify for the knockout stages but we saw Arsenal finish second last season and end up with Barcelona in the first knockout round.
“Although people say you have to beat these teams if you want to win the competition, it is good to avoid them until later on.
“It also gives you little perks like having the second leg at home. There are a few aspects to topping the group which benefit you in the long run.”