West Bromwich Albion boss Tony Pulis has defended his decision to make new signing Darren Fletcher captain.

The midfielder, who joined the club on deadline day, was given the armband for his debut against Burnley last weekend.

However, Pulis has insisted that making Fletcher his skipper was not a slight on previous captain Chris Brunt.

"Brunty was asked to be captain a while back I think and he took it," the Welshman is quoted as saying by Sky Sports News. "I don't think he has ever said he wanted to be captain or anything like that. He was asked and he took it.

"I think Darren has come into the football club and he's got a bit of stature about himself. The other players have responded very well to him.

"I always had it in my mind that [Fletcher's arrival] wouldn't be just about him playing, it would be his influence, the way he trains, the way he works, the way he lives his life. He is a wonderful character and hopefully that will rub off on other people."

West Brom are back in action on Wednesday when they host Swansea City in the Premier League.