West Bromwich Albion manager Tony Pulis is thankful for the arrival of Gareth Barry from Everton.

The 36-year old signed a one-year deal with the Baggies, bringing a wealth experience from his career in the Premier League where he has also featured for Manchester City and Aston Villa.

Pulis lost his captain in Darren Fletcher, who joined Stoke, at the start of the window, but now he says he has filled the void left by the Scotsman.

"There was a big void when we lost 'Fletch' and Gareth will fill that void," said Pulis.

"He really wants to play and I'm really looking forward to working with him.

"He's a fantastic player and I think his attitude towards playing is really gauged by the fact that Everton had offered him a two-year contract to stay there."