Source: Daily_Mail
Newcastle sign Shefki Kuqi
Newcastle have signed free agent Shefki Kuqias a short term replacement for Andy Carroll - the striker they sold toLiverpool for ?35million.[LNB]As exclusively revealed in Sportsmail, 34-year-old Kuqihad been identified by manager Alan Pardew as a player who could bolster hisdepleted forward line. [LNB]Pardew said: 'We needed another option up-front,because we're a little light there due to the temporary loss of Shola, and Shefki will provide us with something different.[LNB]'He's match fit and knows the English game well having been in the country for the best part of ten years. He is ready straight away and that's what we wanted.[LNB]'Shefki is a good, honest pro who will give us astrong physical presence from the bench.'[LNB] Man about Toon: Shefki Kuqi has completed his move to Newcastle[LNB]Kuqi, who will wear the No 42 shirt, told Sky Sports News: 'I don't really have the words to describe how happy I am. To get this chance is a massive thing for me.[LNB]'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.[LNB]'For me, it is a great opportunity just to be back in the Premier League again. It is something I have tasted before.[LNB]'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.'[LNB] Heads up: Kuqi is put through his paces at Newcastle's training ground[LNB]Pardew has been forced to scour the free agent marketafter running out of time on transfer deadline day to bring in a replacementfor crowd favourite Carroll. [LNB]His need to reinforce was compounded further byShola Ameobi suffering a fractured cheekbone and being ruled out until April.[LNB]Former Middlesbrough striker Jeremie Aliadiere andBrazilian Ewerthon, formerly of Palmeiras, have also held talks but Kuqi's 6ft2ins frame and ability in the air suit Pardew's immediate needs.[LNB]Kuqi cancelled his contract with Swansea by mutualconsent and, despite offers from Championship clubs, was desperate for thechance to play for Newcastle and return to the top flight.[LNB] Up for grabs: Sylvain Marveaux (right)[LNB]Ewerthon, 29, has rejected Newcastle's opening offer of acontract but has not ruled out a return to negotiations. His Britishrepresentative Barry McIntosh said: 'There has been an offer from Newcastle.However, the player is still considering his options.'[LNB]Meanwhile, Newcastle target Sylvain Marveaux of Renneshas undergone groin surgery and is expected to miss the rest of the season. The24-year-old is expected to join Newcastle on a free transfer in the summer butis awaiting an approach from Liverpool also.[LNB]Rennes general manager Pierre Dreossi said: 'We will never see Sylvain Marveaux inthe jersey of Rennes again.'[LNB] Newcastle boss Pardew eyes surprise swoop for journeyman Kuqi 'I felt sick': Newcastle fans tell of heartache at memorable comeback against Arsenal... because they left at half-timeAll the latest Newcastle news, features and opinion[LNB] Explore more:People: Andy Carroll Places: Newcastle, Liverpool
