Released Cottagers ace makes French switch

French Ligue 1 outfit Rennes have handed Carlos Bocanegra a three-year contact following his release from Fulham.

Cottagers boss Roy Hodgson informed the 29-year-old out of contract USA international that his services were no longer required by the London outfit and he was free to leave the club during the close season.

As a result Rennes have stepped in to offer Bocanegra, who made only four Premier League starts for Fulham since Hodgson took over at Craven Cottage in late December, a contract to keep him a the club until summer 2011.

"I was in a hurry to join Rennes," said Bocanegra, who made 110 appearances for Fulham.

"After five years with Fulham, I wanted to play in another European league other than England.

"I appreciate the French championship. It's a very high level."