The 31-year-old former PSV Eindhoven and AC Milan midfielder, a free agent after being released by Real Betis last December, agreed a two-and-a-half-year deal with Rovers earlier this week after a successful trial period.

Vogel lacks match fitness and is yet to receive international clearance but Hughes feels he could make an impact before the end of the campaign.

Hughes said: "It was an opportunity too good to miss. We've done the deal early. Initially, it was more squad planning for next season but he has come in and, even though he's missed six or seven months, has looked sharp and could be a good option for us between now and the end of the season. That's why we have done the deal.

"I have known about his abilities for some time. I have seen him play and he has always struck me as a very accomplished football player. He has got great experience from all over Europe and has a winning mentality - that has been evident in the couple of weeks he has been with us."

Vogel joins a team still harbouring hopes of qualifying for Europe, and Hughes believes the Swiss can add considerable strength and dynamism to the Rovers midfield.

The former Wales manager added: "He kind of just sits in front of the back four and just breaks things up and sets attacks on the move. He's got a good variation to his passing and got good energy as well. With the experience and knowledge he has he's going to be a real asset for us.

"He hasn't had games but once the clearance comes through and there's an opportunity to get him involved, we will arrange games and make sure he is up to speed."