Fletcher excited by new start at Stoke
Scotland midfielder Darren Fletcher has agreed a twoyear contract at Stoke City – after deciding not to extend his two-and-a-half-year stay at West Brom.
Fletcher, 33, is the first summer signing for Potters boss Mark Hughes, and he said: “It’s all happened incredibly quickly, but I am delighted to be here.
“This is a fantastic club with a top manager and a great group of players. I am really looking forward to this opportunity.
“I loved every moment of my time at West Bromwich Albion and I loved every moment with Manchester United, but this is a new challenge for me now, and I like to think I respond well to new challenges.”
Just two weeks ago, Albion boss Tony Pulis was convinced Fletcher would stay at The Hawthorns and his exit is a huge blow to the Baggies.
“Of course there is a disappointment in seeing Fletch move on and we wish him well,” Pulis said.
“I was happy that we made him a fair and competitive offer but, as is his right, he has chosen to accept another opportunity.
“He has been my captain since he came into the club and he has led the team superbly. But that is football and we move on. Nothing stays the same forever.
“We are determined to progress the team forward during this transfer window and this does not change that.”
Former Aberdeen midfielder and captain Ryan Jack has signed a three-year deal at Rangers after his Pittodrie contract expired.
Middlesbrough have released eight players from their Academy.
Five Under-23 squad members – Bradley Fewster, Niall McGoldrick, Lewis Maloney, Junior Mondal and Jo Wheatley – have left, while U18s Nathan Convery, Brandon Holdsworth and Matthew Wilson have also been released.