This article is part of Football League World's 'The Verdict' series, which provides personal opinions from the FLW writers regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more...

Stoke City have confirmed the signing of Steven Fletcher on a free transfer following his release from Sheffield Wednesday.

The 33-year-old enjoyed a strong season at Hillsborough in the last campaign, notching 13 goals in what turned out to be a disappointing seasons for Garry Monk's side.

So, what do you make of the Fletcher signing for Stoke? Good business?

The team here at FLW take a look.....

George Harbey

This is a superb signing for Stoke.

Whilst Michael O’Neill has a plethora of exciting options to choose from in the final third, I feel that they lack that focal point up top, and someone who can help lead the line alongside Tyrese Campbell.

Fletcher may be approaching the latter stages of his career, but he’s endured another stellar campaign in front of goal this term, and he’s showing no signs of slowing down despite a couple of injury problems.

To sign a proven goalscorer at Championship level and an international forward on a free transfer is a coup for Stoke, as there was bound to be many clubs after his signature this summer.

Could this lead to a departure or two, though? You’d have to say that that would be likely, as Lee Gregory, for instance, has struggled to impress under Michael O’Neill thus far.

Alfie Burns

It’s an excellent piece of business for Stoke.

Fletcher is coming to the end of his career, but he’s arguably just played the best season at Hillsborough and is kicking around on a free.

Michael O’Neill will know what he will get from the striker: hard work, an outlet up top and, most importantly, goals.

I'm sure there was plenty of offers on the table for Fletcher this summer given his attributes and availability, so Stoke have done well to land him.

It looks a good fit.

QUIZ: Did these 12 ex-Stoke City players actually ever score for the club? Have a go now!

 

 

Jacob Potter

This is a great signing by the Potters.

Fletcher has a proven record in the Championship, and was one of the few players to come away with any sort of credit for Sheffield Wednesday last season.

Stoke need players that are proven in the second-tier and Fletcher certainly fits this description well.

He netted 13 goals in 30 appearances for the Owls, and I think Wednesday would have been in real bother without his contribution in matches in the second-tier.

However, it's important that they add players that can create opportunities for him up-front, as Sheffield Wednesday rarely gave him the service he needs to score goals.

Stoke could certainly benefit from adding more competition to their front-line, as I'm not convinced that the likes of Sam Vokes are quite good enough at the moment.

Tyrese Campbell and Benik Afobe are solid options, but having a selection dilemma is never a bad thing for a manager.