James Beattie is delighted to have completed his �2.5m move from Sheffield United to Premier League side Stoke.

The 30-year-old former Blackburn Rovers, Southampton and Everton striker signed a three-and-a-half-year deal at the Britannia Stadium on Monday.

He told BBC Radio Stoke: "I'm very happy. I can't wait to start playing and to join the fight.

"I'm disappointed to leave Sheffield United but the chance to play in the Premier League takes that away."

Beattie, who joined the Blades from Everton in August 2007, said he was surprised to have been given the opportunity to leave Bramall Lane.

"I don't think it was a footballing decision to let me go," said Beattie, "more one taken by the financial people."

And although shocked to be allowed to talk to the Potters, Beattie said that meeting manager Tony Pulis was enough to convince him to move to the Potteries.

"I'd heard a lot of good things about the gaffer from people who know a lot about football," said Beattie. "He's a fighter, who wants keep this club in the Premier League."

Beattie also said that he was impressed with City's performance in Saturday evening's goalless draw with league leaders Liverpool.

"The lads all seemed to be pulling in the right direction," said Beattie. "They were willing to fight and that's a big part of my game, so that's maybe why the gaffer wanted to bring me here."

It is now over five years since Beattie, who made his England bow alongside fellow debutant Wayne Rooney in February 2003, won the last of his five England caps.

And Beattie has not played Premier League football since his final game for Everton in May 2007 ended a lean time in front of goal, in which he scored just two goals all season.

But, after rediscovering his goal touch at a rung further down with the Blades (hitting 34 goals in 57 starts), he feels he is now better equipped to deal with the demands of the top flight.

"I think I'm a better player now than I was when I left," said Beattie. "Hopefully I can show that to the fans and my new team-mates."

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version