Following a two-week trial at Ewood Park, the former Switzerland captain signed a two-and-a-half-year deal with Rovers last week.

Although the 31-year-old midfielder's previous contract with Real Betis was cancelled in December following a legal dispute, Rovers have only now secured the paperwork that frees Vogel to play.

It means Vogel is in line to face the Royals at the Madejski Stadium, although a lack of football in recent months due to his wrangle at Betis may see him start on the bench.

"By all accounts it (international clearance) came through late yesterday, so we're delighted with that, and he is available for selection," confirmed manager Mark Hughes.

"He has trained well this week, as he always has done since he walked through the door, so he could come into the equation.

"A little bit of a concern, though, is that he's not had any games of late, but I know if I did involve him he wouldn't let us down."

Vogel, capped 94 times by his country, was allowed to move outside the designated transfer window as he was a free agent.

Prior to his ill-fated move to Spain, Vogel played for AC Milan and PSV Eindhoven, and it is that experience that lured Hughes.

"I've even played against him, and take it from me he is a very accomplished player," remarked Hughes.

"He has a great winning mentality, and that's something I was really impressed with when I met him personally.

"I just feel he is going to be a really good player for us, with the ability to break things up in front of the back four, while he can also pick the right pass and free the attacking players in front of him."