Stoke City sign midfielder Etherington

Stoke City have completed the signing of Matthew Etherington from West Ham United. The 27-year-old midfielder has signed a three-and-a-half-year deal at the Britannia Stadium after the clubs agreed an undisclosed fee, believed to be £3 million.

Stoke manager Tony Pulis believes Etherington's experience in the top flight will be crucial in their fight to avoid relegation.

"I think Matthew feels it is right to get out of London and start again," Pulis said. "Perhaps we can give him the love and care he has not had for a while."

"I have really got a feeling from him. If we can get him back to his best, he will be a really exciting player for our supporters."

Etherington is expected to make his debut for Stoke against Liverpool tomorrow.