Kuqi scored seven goals in 24 appearances for the Swans

Derby County have completed a loan deal for Swansea City striker Shefki Kuqi.

The 33-year-old joins on a three-month loan and will be part of the squad for Tuesday's Championship fixture away against Hull City.

Rams manager Nigel Clough has been desperately looking to sign a striker following the sale of Rob Hulse to QPR and an injury to Chris Porter.

The much-travelled Finland international, who has 53 won caps, only joined the Swans in January.

Kuqi was signed on a free transfer by former boss Paulo Sousa and has scored seven goals in 24 appearances.

606: DEBATE Decent signing, adds another dimension to our play Dan

But although not a first choice, Kuqi's exit leaves Brendan Rodgers' side short of options up front.

Stephen Dobbie has held down the lone striker's role at the Liberty Stadium this season, scoring twice but the Swans now only have one fit striker available.

"Shefki hasn't figured a great deal this season and we both felt that the move would be a good chance for him to play some games,'' said Swans boss Brendan Rodgers.

"We had an open conversation about it. He's a good guy and I respect that at the stage of his career, at 33, he wants to play games, which is understandable, and we wish him well at Derby.

"Shefki's a great professional, but his strengths are different to the type of game we play here.

"It also gives me the chance to use the space to bring someone else in.''

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version