Sparky: Shaq to the future

MARK HUGHES reckons Xherdan Shaqiri has done his homework – and now it’s playtime.

Pint-sized firestarter Shaqiri, 26, is back after helping Switzerland to a controversial World Cup play-off victory over Northern Ireland.

Hughes said: “For Xherdan it was all about getting used to this league.

“He knows almost everyone now, their strengths and weaknesses. He knows how to affect the opposition.

“We have seen the difference in his decision-making – and it’s impact on the team. He’s taking on the role of being the main instigator of our attacking threat and I think that the whole crowd senses that as well.

“When we signed him in 2015 £12million was significant money. It would be a hell of a lot more now.”