Stoke swoop for Cresswell

Stoke are on the verge of signing Leeds striker Richard Cresswell after a move to Coca-Cola Championship rivals Hull collapsed.

The Tigers had agreed a fee with the 29-year-old, who had also accepted personal terms, only for his medical to prove unsatisfactory. Now Cresswell is heading for the Britannia Stadium and held talks with officials prior to their 2-0 friendly defeat by Aston Villa.

Stoke boss Tony Pulis told the club's website, www.stokecityfc.co.uk: "Richard is a fantastic player and we are delighted he will be joining us. I wasn't aware of his availability until I got a call the other day and I must say I am absolutely delighted to be signing him."

He added: "There have been a number of clubs after him, including Preston, Hull and Sheffield Wednesday, and I'm very happy he wants to sign for us.

"I think he is a top player, a very hard worker and he has great finishing ability to, so he will be a very good signing for this club."