England FA have confirmed they have appointed Sunderland manager Sam Allardyce as the new Three Lions manager on an initial two-year deal. The 61-year-old was managing the Black Cats and he helped the Stadium of Light outfit in avoiding relegation last season.
He will now step down from his post at Sunderland and take the managerial role of the English national team.
England were eliminated from the Round of 16 of the Euro 2016 after Iceland came from behind to beat them 2-1. After the exit from the European championship, Roy Hodgson stepped down from his post as their manager and the Football Association were searching for a candidate to replace him.
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The FA's chief executive Martin Glenn, technical director Dan Ashworth and acting chairman David Gill were a part of the panel that decided to hand the vacant England coach job to Allardyce.
"Following a comprehensive and structured process, The Football Association is today delighted to confirm Sam Allardyce as England manager," a statement read on FA's offiicial website.
"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."
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The former Newcastle United and Bolton Wanderers manager has expressed his delight after he landed the England manager's job. He remains confident that the Three Lions have the sufficient quality of players and suggested that "it is time for us to deliver."
"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," Allardyce said.
"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."
