Hughes: I had to join Rovers

New Blackburn manager Mark Hughes admitted today the job 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," said Hughes, who played for Blackburn before going into management. "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.

Hughes explained: "There was a little bit in the press 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.

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

Blackburn chief executive John Williams said Hughes had always been No1 on their list and added: "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."