Rovers job too good to miss - Hughes

New Blackburn manager Mark Hughes admitted the Ewood Park post was an opportunity he “couldn't afford to miss”.

Hughes was appointed last night following a few hours of negotiations after the Football Association of Wales gave Rovers permission to speak to their national coach.

“It has all happened very quickly and I am delighted to be here,” he said.

“It is a club I know, I know the people here. They had an indication of what I can offer as well, they have obviously seen my work.

“It was an opportunity I couldn’t afford to let pass by.

“It was important at this stage of my career to make a move and this was the right time for me.”

There had been some confusion over whether Hughes wanted the job as reports on Monday hinted he was happy to stay with Wales, only for his agent to come out on Tuesday and admit he was interested.

The former Manchester United and Barcelona striker explained how such an apparent u-turn had come about.

“There was a little bit in the press on Monday from quotes I had made at a different time so those were misinterpreted and regurgitated on the Monday, which caused a bit of problem for me, but since that point everyone was clear I was interested in the post,” he added.

“Once Blackburn had permission from the FA of Wales things happened very quickly.”

Blackburn chief executive John Williams revealed Hughes had always been number one on their list.

“We are delighted we have been able to land our unanimous first choice,” he told a press conference televised by Sky Sports.

“Mark has signed a contract which is a two-year fixed term followed by a 12-month rolling term, which effectively means he has a three-year stewardship.”