Sheffield United: Former Blades favourite Paul Coutts unveils his new club

Former Sheffield United midfielder Paul Coutts has joined Fleetwood Town, after agreeing a two year deal with the League One club
Paul Coutts (left) and manager Chris Wilder celebrate promotion to the Premier League: Dave Howarth/PA Wire.Paul Coutts (left) and manager Chris Wilder celebrate promotion to the Premier League: Dave Howarth/PA Wire.
Paul Coutts (left) and manager Chris Wilder celebrate promotion to the Premier League: Dave Howarth/PA Wire.

Coutts, who left Bramall Lane at the end of last season, becomes Joey Barton's third new signing of the transfer window following the arrival of Danny Andrew and Josh Morris at Highbury.

"Paul is a player we have been working on for a number of months now and we are delighted to get it over the line," Barton said. "He’s someone who’s been there and done it at this level and raises the standards on and off the field.

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"He’s an exciting signing for Fleetwood Town and I’m looking forward to working with him."

Coutts, aged 30, was a driving force behind United's League One title triumph two years ago. But, after suffering a serious leg injury following their return to the Championship, he struggled for opportunities as Chris Wilder's side reached the Premier League last term. Signed from Derby County by Wilder's predecessor Nigel Clough, he made the last of his 136 appearances for United against Millwall in April.

"It's been quite a long summer, an unusual summer, but it's great to get going again," Coutts said. "I've spoken to the manager (Barton) throughout the summer and then I came up on Monday, saw the facilities, and my mind was made up. That and by the manager's enthusiasm."

"My aim is to have a successful season and that is promotion," Coutts added. "Once the season gets going, hopefully I'll add something to what we had last season."