The 20-year-old impressed for Villa in the 2-2 draw with United at Villa Park on Saturday.
“I saw these young Villa players in the reserves against us last season,” Fletcher said.
“I knew what they were capable of. Young players respond to occasions like this.
“We didn’t go into the game thinking because they had unknown players we would be taking the points for granted.
“I watch our reserve matches regularly and Bannan scored a hat-trick against us earlier this season. Marc Albrighton was in their reserves last season.
“Barry is talented. He’s playing in the Premier League with Villa. If he gets a run, his confidence should grow. Having seen him for Villa’s reserves and with the Under 21s he has a bright future.”
