Newcastle sign free-agent Kuqi

Veteran striker Shefki Kuqi has signed for Newcastle United in a surprise move after being released by Championship club Swansea City.

Kuqi, 34, found himself surplus to requirements at the Liberty Stadium and had his contract terminated by mutual consent on January 26.

But the former Finland international has made an unlikely return to the Premier League with Newcastle, who are short of striking options following the sale of Andy Carroll to Liverpool and an injury to Shola Ameobi.

Kuqi has previously appeared in the Premier League with Blackburn Rovers in the 2005/06 season, during which he scored seven goals.

He also spent four months on loan at Fulham in 2007, but failed to find the net.

“I got a phone call from my agent last week who said there might be a possibility to go there (Newcastle) and when I heard this I was over the moon,” Kuqi told Sky Sports News.

“In the beginning it was hard to believe, but in the end it all came true.”

“I don’t really have the words to describe how happy I am. To get this chance is a massive thing for me.”

“I am just happy to be here now and I can’t wait to start and hopefully try to do the best I can for Newcastle United. ”

“For me, it is a great opportunity just to be back in the Premier League again. It is something I have tasted before.”

“Everybody knows it is the best league in the world and to be part of it and a club the size of Newcastle United, I am really proud. It’s an honour to be here.”

With Carroll gone and Ameobi injured, Newcastle manager Alan Pardew had only Leon Best, Peter Lovenkrands and the inexperienced Nile Ranger to call upon.

Pardew believes the squad will benefit from the arrival of the experienced Kuqi on a short-term deal lasting until the end of the season.

“We needed another option up front because we are a little light there due to the temporary loss of Shola, and Shefki will provide us with something different,” Pardew said.

“He’s match-fit and knows the English game well having been in the country for the best part of 10 years. He is ready straight away and that’s what we wanted.”

“Shefki is a good, honest pro who will give us a strong physical presence from the bench.”