Butt completes transfer to Newcastle

ENGLAND international Nicky Butt completed his move to Newcastle from Manchester United yesterday.

The 29-year-old has signed a four-year contract with the Magpies and could make his debut in the Newcastle-Gateshead Cup this weekend.

Butt has been given the number four shirt for the forthcoming season. The midfielder was not a regular starter for Alex Ferguson last season and has opted to seek first team football elsewhere.

He flew home early from United’s tour of America to sign for Bobby Robson’s side. The Magpies were among a number of Premiership clubs in pursuit of Butt’s signature after he handed in a transfer request in January. His move to St James’ Park marks the end of a 13-year career at Old Trafford which included six Premiership titles. He signed as a trainee in 1991 and other highlights include winning the Champions League in 1999. His final appearance was in the FA Cup final victory against Millwall last season.