England appoint Sam Allardyce as their new manager on two-year deal

Sam Allardyce will replace Roy Hodgson as the Three Lions' coach.

The Football Association (FA) have confirmed they has appointed Sam Allardyce as their new manager on Friday.

The Big Sam was managing Sunderland and was forced to be relieved from his duties at the Stadium of Light to take over the national team job. He helped the Black Cats avoid relegation from the Premier League last season.

Allardyce will replace Roy Hodgson as the Three Lions' new coach as the latter stepped down from his post following England's exit from the Euro 2016 in the Round of 16. Wayne Rooney's side suffered a 2-1 defeat at the hands of Iceland, who were playing their first European championship.

A statement on the FA's official website read, "Following a comprehensive and structured process, The Football Association is today delighted to confirm Sam Allardyce as England manager."

"The highly respected 61-year-old has signed an initial two-year contract and takes up the position with immediate effect following a successful spell retaining Sunderland's status in the Premier League. Allardyce's first match in charge will be a friendly fixture at Wembley Stadium on Thursday 1 September.

"The unanimous choice of The FA's three-man selection panel, comprising FA chief executive Martin Glenn, technical director Dan Ashworth and acting chairman David Gill, Allardyce arrives with a proven track record of getting the best results out of the teams he has managed and a strong reputation as a forward-thinker with progressive ideas."

Allardyce, who has managed Newcastle United, West Ham United and Bolton Wanderers in the past has expressed his delight to take charge of England.

"I am extremely honoured to be appointed England manager especially as it is no secret that this is the role I have always wanted. For me, it is absolutely the best job in English football," the 61-year-old explained.

"I will do everything I can to help England do well and give our nation the success our fans deserve. Above all, we have to make the people and the whole country proud.

"While my main focus will be on the senior team and getting positive results, I want to add my influence to the great work being done across the development teams at St. George's Park – a facility I have used with my previous clubs. I know we have talented, committed players and it is time for us to deliver."

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