Fulham has confirmed Welsh manager Mark Hughes will take over at Craven Cottage, effective immediately.

Hughes has signed a two-year-deal and replaces Roy Hodgson who left the Cottagers for fellow Premier League side Liverpool.

The former Manchester City manager was understandably delighted to have landed a new job and immediately set his focus on the task at hand.

"I am joining on the back of two of the most successful seasons in the club's history. I am confident that with some additions to the squad, hard work and commitment, we can move this club forward in the right direction," Hughes told Fulham's official website.

Fulham finished seventh in 2008-09 and made the Europa League final in the competition's inaugural season, meaning expectations are high at Craven Cottage and Hughes is hoping to bring the fans 'special times' in the upcoming season.

"I hope the Fulham fans will enjoy some special times during this season's campaign and we will work hard to achieve that."

Fulham owner Mohammed Al Fayed shared Hughes' optimism.

"I know that he understands my vision for the club and believes in what we want to achieve. We have enjoyed two incredibly successful years and my hopes and dreams for this club are for that journey to continue," Al Fayed said.

It was widely reported that Dutchman Martin Jol was set to take over at Fulham, but his club Ajax blocked the move, sending the chairman back to the drawing board.

But he will be delighted with the appointment of Hughes - a man who has fantastic football pedigree.

Playing stints with Manchester United, Chelsea and Barcelona plus managerial experience at club and international level means Hughes has the required experience to help Fulham progress.

Before his time at Manchester City, Hughes managed Wales and Blackburn Rovers with much success.

He was exceptionally close to taking Wales to Euro 2004, losing in a play-off to Russia and with Blackburn he guided them to three top-half finishes, an FA Cup semi-final and European football.

Rovers fans loved the 46-year-old, and he had early success at City before a run of seven draws saw their impatient owners sack him in December.

He has been without a job since, but beat candidates Roberto Donadoni and Sven Goran-Eriksson for the Fulham gig.

It is understood that Hughes will be joined by his backroom staff team consisting of Mark Bowen, Kevin Hitchcock and Eddie Niedzwiecki who worked with Hughes at City.

Hughes' first game in charge will be a home friendly against German side Werder Bremen on August 7 before the Cottagers' season-opener against Bolton at the Reebok Stadium on August 14.