Darren Fletcher wishes West Brom well as he leaves for Stoke City

The 33-year-old, who has today signed a two-year deal with Midlands rivals Stoke City, said the new challenge was too inviting.

“It was hard to leave but I depart on good terms having thoroughly enjoyed my time at the club," said the former club captain. "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.

"It’s all happened incredibly quickly, but I am delighted to be here (at Stoke)," he added.

“This is a fantastic club with a top manager and a great group of players and I am really looking forward to this opportunity.

“I loved every moment of my time at West Bromwich Albion and I loved every moment of my time with Manchester United, but this is a new challenge for me now, and I like to think I respond well to new challenges.”

Fletcher triggered a 12-month contract extension on New Year's Eve but decided against signing it.

The Baggies returned with a better deal and two weeks ago, head coach Tony Pulis was 'convinced' Fletcher would stay.

But after losing his influential skipper to bitter rival Mark Hughes, a defiant Pulis said the club would continue to make progress in the transfer window.

“Of course there is a disappointment in seeing Fletch move on and we wish him well,” said Albion’s head coach.

“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.”