By Fraser Nicholson

  • Welsh international signs initial one-year deal
  • He becomes the Club’s second signing of the summer
  • O’Neill convinced he has already brought his experience to bear

Stoke City have completed the permanent transfer of James Chester.

The Welsh international joined the Potters on loan from Aston Villa in January and played a key role as Michael O’Neill’s men successfully climbed clear of the relegation zone.

The 31-year-old has signed an initial one-year contract and will among the City contingent that will fly to Belfast tomorrow for a five-day training camp.

Manager Michael O’Neill said: “James brings vast experience to our squad and he has already shown himself to be a massive influence, both in and around the training ground and in matches.

“It’s no coincidence that in the 13 games he started after joining us on loan from Villa we claimed 24 points and I’m delighted to have him on board.”

Chester becomes the Club’s second signing of the 2020 close season following the arrival on Friday of former Sheffield Wednesday left back Morgan Fox.

Fox will also make the trip to Northern Ireland with his new teammates.

To purchase a new 2020/21 replica kit click HERE. Training wear coming soon.