The 27-year-old's move to Craven Cottage from Everton, which will cost Fulham around £10million up front with more to come depending on performances, was finally completed on Thursday.

And Hodgson said: "I have made no secret of my wish to add Andy Johnson to my squad. I believe that he has all the qualities needed to assist us in next season's campaign and I am more than delighted that we have secured his services for the long term."

Speaking to the club's official website, Hodgson added: "There has been a lot of speculation regarding this transfer during the last week, very little of which has had any foundation.

"I am just happy to be able to focus on the positive news that Andy Johnson is now a Fulham player, one who we have great hopes for - and I am grateful to the chairman, the board of directors and the chief executive for working tirelessly to make this possible."

The England striker is determined to prove himself a star summer signing for Hodgson, after becoming Fulham's first £10million-plus buy since Lyon flop Steve Marlet in 2001.

The Cottagers' ambition for the new campaign has been such that Johnson arrived as their 11th signing of the close season, and he could partner fellow new boy Bobby Zamora in the season ahead.

"I am glad that the agreement is now finalised and that I can concentrate on playing football for Fulham," said Johnson.

"Roy has been great over the last week or so of ongoing discussions, and his support in getting me here has only strengthened my ambition to give 100% for him and the team every game.

"Fulham is a club with a lot of history and ambition, and I'm pleased that I can be part of that. I'm now just looking forward to getting into the dressing room with the lads and to start training with them as soon as possible."