Alan Curbishley first tried to sign Ricardo Fuller over a decade ago but problems with the Jamaican’s back frustrated the deal.

Fuller has carved out a decent career for himself at Palace, Hearts, Preston, Southampton, Ipswich (loan) and latterly Stoke. Fuller has been an instrumental part of the Potters rise but with Stoke now able to attract players of the calibre of Peter Crouch, it was time for the 32-year-old to move on.

As long as he still has his determination and desire, Fuller will be a real handful at this level.

A target man who has scored 90 goals in 340 league games, Fuller will be lacking a bit in match fitness at the moment. He could possibly play as an over age player in the Under-21 side before being introduced to the first team from the bench.

The Valley can expect to see some fireworks if Ricardo plays near to his best form.