Tony Pulis ‘disappointed’ to see Fletcher make Stoke move

Tony Pulis has been left disappointed after seeing his West Brom captain Darren Fletcher leave to join Stoke City.

Fletcher was an integral part of the Albion midfield after arriving from Manchester United in February 2015 but the former skipper has now opted to join the Potters on a two-year deal following a two-and-a-half year stay at the Hawthorns.

And despite his disappointment at losing a crucial member of the team, Pulis was full of praise for the 33-year-old.

“Of course there is a disappointment in seeing Fletch move on and we wish him well,” Pulis said.

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“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 and the game moves on.

“We are determined to progress the team forward during this transfer window and this does not change that.”

Following his departure, Fletcher sent a thank you message to the Albion faithful, revealing the Stoke offer was too good to turn down.

He said: “It was hard to leave but I depart on good terms having thoroughly enjoyed my time at the Club. In the end the chance to take up a fresh challenge at Stoke proved too good to resist.

“I do want to send my best wishes to everyone at Albion. It has been a privilege to captain the club in my two and half years there and I wish the club well for the future.”