Hughes lands striker Kuqi

Mark Hughes’ international reputation was enough to convince Shefki Kuqi he had to sign for Blackburn.

The Finland striker completed a free transfer to Ewood Park from Ipswich yesterday, signing a three-year contract after meeting Hughes.

The Kosovo-born 28-year-old is thrilled to get a chance to play in the Premiership, but it was the presence of the former Manchester United and Barcelona striker which really swung the deal.

“I spoke to Mark Hughes and it was a great conversation,” said Kuqi.

“It made me even more interested to come here. He is a big hero, he was a lot of fans’ favourite player, even in Kosovo, people spoke highly of him.”