Francis Jeffers has signed for Blackburn on a free transfer following his release by Charlton after enduring a wretched two years battling for fitness and form at The Valley.

The 25-year-old striker, who has been beset by injury since emerging at Everton, has agreed a two-year contract which is "heavily incentivised", according to Rovers chairman John Williams.

"It has been a busy couple of days but what a fantastic move for me, I can't wait," said Jeffers.

"I spoke to a number of clubs but once I spoke to Mark [Hughes], my mind was made up as to where I would go. Exciting times for me definitely.

"I've had a difficult couple of years but I've no doubt that I can do it and given a fair crack of the whip here I'm sure I can get back to my best and take this club forward."

Jeffers was tipped for a bright future when he scored seven goals in 17 appearances for Everton in 1999 but a £8million move to Arsenal in 2001 proved unsuccessful.

He scored on his England debut in 2003 but could not gain a regular place under Arsene Wenger and moved to Charlton in 2004 after a brief loan spell back at Goodison Park.

He spent four months of last season at Rangers in Scotland and did not score in his 14 appearances, but manager Hughes has shown faith in the striker to join an attack which has lost Craig Bellamy to Liverpool.

Blackburn also have the option of an extra year on Jeffers' contract.