TONY Pulis has paid tribute to Darren Fletcher but insisted Albion will move forward from the loss of his captain.
Fletcher has opted to exercise his right not to trigger an option to stay with the Baggies and instead sign for the Club's Premier League neighbours, Stoke City.
"Of course there is a disappointment in seeing 'Fletch' move on and we wish him well," said Albion's head coach.
"I was happy that we made him a fair and competitive offer but, as is his right, he has chosen to accept another opportunity.
"He has been my captain since he came into the Club and he has led the team superbly. But that is football and we move on. Nothing stays the same forever and the game moves on.
"We are determined to progress the team forward during this transfer window and this does not change that."
Fletcher bid a fond farewell to The Hawthorns and thanked the Club and its supporters for their backing during his two and a half year stay during which he passed 300 Premier League appearances.
He said: "It was hard to leave but I depart on good terms having thoroughly enjoyed my time at the Club. In the end the chance to take up a fresh challenge at Stoke proved too good to resist.
"I do want to send my best wishes to everyone at Albion. It has been a privilege to captain the Club in my two and half years there and I wish the Club well for the future."