"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. 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."
Kuqi is a robust centre-forward and at 6ft 2in will offer Newcastle aerial options too. Born in Yugoslavia but capped 62 times for Finland, the big man has netted 150 goals in 500 games for his various clubs. Kuqi is also renowned for celebrating with in special style with a bellyflop earning him the nickname the Flying Finn.
Kuqi, who says he reluctantly left Swansea, said: "I feel strong and fit — I haven't missed many games in my career. I will keep going until I stop enjoying it and I stop believing I can help my team when I am on the pitch. I can't do anything to help them [Swansea] any more, but I hope they achieve their target this season. It was hard for me to sign the papers to say I would leave because I still feel I could have played a part, especially in certain games."