James McClean has returned to the English Premier League after signing a three-year deal with West Bromich Albion.
The Ireland winger has become manager Tony Pulis’ first summer signing after signing from Wigan Athletic for an undisclosed fee.
The 26-year-old former Derry City and Sunderland winger had been linked to several clubs in recent weeks after Wigan were relegated to the third tier of English football, League One, and the Ireland international admits that he was keen to join the English midlands club once they showed some interest.
Speaking to the club’s official website, McClean said: "I'm delighted. I've played in the Premier League before and not only am I back here, but I'm with a stable top flight club and one that wants to push on.
"Tony Pulis told me what his plans were, where I would fit in. It was all very positive. The Premier League is where any player wants to be.
"He also told me he has a great dressing room, it's been a stable club - but he's made it clear he wants to push this club on. I'm very ambitious. Everything about this move seems right for me - I'm very positive about it.
"Once the Albion came in this was a move I was keen to get done - this is a big club and a new chapter for me."
NEW SIGNING: Albion capture James McClean from @LaticsOfficial. Full story here http://t.co/OGFVRBezWw #wba pic.twitter.com/Z8EudFwnv6
— West Bromwich Albion (@WBAFCofficial) June 22, 2015And McClean’s new boss is also delighted with his new acquisition: "He's got Premier League experience from his time with Sunderland.
"James has had a couple of indifferent years with Wigan but he did well at Sunderland and we're very pleased to have him on board.
"I am absolutely confident that he can fulfil the potential to come back and be a big player for us.
"He's got pace, he's left-footed - so he gives us a good balance in the side - and he can score goals."
