Hughes delight as Cissé pens two-and-a-half year QPR deal

Queens Park Rangers sign Djibril Cissé from Lazio on a two-and-a-half year deal from Serie A side Lazio

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By TSR staff Tuesday 31 January 2012, 15:54 UK

Djibril Cissé becomes Mark Hughes' fourth signing as QPR bossPhoto: The Sport Review

mark hughes

Mark Hughes has admitted to being a long-term admirer of Djibril Cissé after the French striker joined Queens Park Rangers on a two-and-a-half year deal for an undisclosed fee from Lazio.

The 30-year-old former Auxerre, Liverpool and Marseille forward becomes Hughes’ fourth signing as Rangers boss following January swoops for Taye Taiwo, Nedum Onuoha and Samba Diakite.

“I rate Djibril very, very highly,” Hughes told QPR’s website. “I’ve watched him for many years and always been impressed by what he brings to the table.

“He’s a huge threat to opposition’s defences. He’s got great pace, power and movement and that’s something we will hopefully benefit from.

“His goal record is there for everyone to see. He’s scored goals wherever he’s played. His record speaks for itself.

“He was desperate to come here once we showed our interest in him and we can’t wait to get the best out of him.”

Cissé, who is eligible to make his QPR debut against Aston Villa on Wednesday – subject to international clearance being received one hour before kick-off at Villa Park – revealed his desire to link-up with Hughes was a big factor in his move to west London.

“QPR have a hugely ambitious project,” said Cissé, who will wear the No23 shirt at Loftus Road. “When I talked to the manager, he spoke highly of the Club and where he wants to take it over the next few years. He wanted to sign me at Manchester City and now I am finally here with him at QPR.

“He wants to achieve big things here – that was all I needed to hear from him.”

He added: “I have unfinished business here in England. The English league is the best in the world. It is the league that suits me the most.

“I’m really happy to be here and I can’t wait to repay the Club’s confidence in me, to get back to where I want to be as a player. I will always give one hundred per cent and I can’t wait to start playing games.”