Darren Fletcher has said that West Bromwich Albion head coach Tony Pulis was instrumental in his move to the club from Manchester United.

The 31-year-old midfielder has moved to The Hawthorns on a free transfer, bringing his 19-year association with the Red Devils to an end.

Fletcher says that he is pleased to have his future secured after being told that he was surplus to requirements at Old Trafford.

"It feels great. This is a fantastic new challenge for me in my career," he told West Brom's official website. "I've spent my career at Manchester United and it's all I've ever known.

"But I felt it was the right time to move and I'm not sentimental about doing that - I have great memories obviously, but I'm now a West Bromwich Albion player and I cannot wait to get going.

"Everyone involved in making the deal happen has been fantastic. And a big reason I'm here is because of the head coach. He has impressed me from the first minute. When someone shows how much they want you it's a great feeling."

Fletcher has signed a two-and-a-half-year contract with the West Midlands outfit.