Blackburn Rovers saw midfielder John Fleck depart this summer and now, his move to Chesterfield has been announced.
Blackburn Rovers moved to sign Fleck in the winter, bringing him in from Sheffield United to add some depth and experience to their midfield ranks.
The Scot had fallen down the pecking order at Bramall Lane following their rise to the Premier League. However, Fleck didn’t get the action he desired at Ewood Park either.
After watching the first three games from the bench, the 33-year-old started against Preston North End in February but had to come off after just 17 minutes. He suffered a shin injury that required surgery, and he was not seen in a Blackburn Rovers shirt again.
Fleck would hold talks with Rovers over a possible contract extension, but little has been said since then and he’s remained without a club.
However, it recently emerged that the former Sheffield United and Coventry City man had linked up with Chesterfield. It was not known whether it was merely for training purposes or with a view to him landing a deal, but his fate has now been confirmed.
The Spireites have confirmed the signing of Fleck on a deal until the end of the season.
A new start
The past year or so will have been tough for Fleck. After a spell out of the game as a free agent, he’ll be determined to show he still has what it takes to be an asset with Chesterfield.
He’ll also be keen to show that his Blackburn Rovers injury problems are a thing of the past. If Fleck can get back to his best and stay fit, he has what it takes to be a serious asset for Paul Cook’s side.
The veteran midfielder could be a source of creativity for the Spireites and a real driving force from deep if used at his best. His experience of doing so against a far higher level of opposition should stand him in good stead for League Two football.
His experience and leadership will be of huge value in the dressing room and on the training pitch as well.
What has Fleck said?
Upon the confirmation of his move, the Chesterfield new boy spoke of his excitement looking at the challenge ahead after a short training stint with the club.
Fleck expressed his joy at being amongst a training group once more after time on the sidelines at Blackburn Rovers and a couple of months without a team. He said:
I”’m delighted to be here. I’ve been training here for just over a week and the opportunity has come up to sign until the end of the season, so I’m really happy.
“It’s been great to just get back in amongst the training group so I’m really looking forward to it.”
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