SHAUN MALONEY admits he's thrilled to have finally completed his move to America - and has praised Wigan for letting him go.

The Scotland star signed for Chicago Fire after speculation linking him with a third spell at Celtic came to nothing.

And the Tartan Army hero was quick to praise English Championship strugglers Wigan for allowing him to leave now.

Maloney said: "I certainly didn't expect it to get done this quickly, so I appreciate the faith that Chicago have shown in me.

"It's a brilliant league and I'm really hopeful that I'm going to enjoy Chicago and be a big part of what the club is building.

"I'd also like to show respect for my previous club and thank the owner and manager over at Wigan for letting this happen."

Chicago Fire boss Frank Yallop believes the 32-year-old will be a key player in the MLS.

He said: "Shaun is a very experienced player, having played in both the English and Scottish Premier Leagues, and we're very happy to have signed someone of his calibre.

"His style of play fits in exactly with what we're trying to do at the Fire. He's a hard-working, attack-minded player who is really going to help this team and we're excited to have signed him.

"It's important to have players in from the start of pre-season and get them integrated into the team and with the other players.

"It takes time to learn each others' traits and how they go about things on the field, so it's great to have Shaun in with the group from the start.

"We worked very hard to get this deal done and feel very good that he's finally with us now."