Sam Allardyce confirmed as new England manager

The Football Association has confirmed the appointment of Sam Allardyce as the new England manager.

The 61-year-old, who has signed a two-year deal, has admitted that taking charge of his national team is the job that he has “always wanted”.

Allardyce swiftly became the frontrunner for the three-man hiring panel, comprising of FA technical directorDan Ashworth, chief executive Martin Glenn and vice-chairman David Gill.

Jurgen Klinsmann, Eddie Howe and Steve Bruce were also thought to be candidates, but the English governing body unanimously decided on appointing Allardyce, who took on the Sunderland job just nine months ago.

After agreeing compensation with the Black Cats, who publicly expressed frustration at the speed of the appointment, the FA confirmed the news.

“Alongside his primary target of qualification for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, Allardyce has a mandate to shape a strong, purposeful team identity and maximise the performance potential of a young, talented England squad at a major tournament.

“Allardyce is also charged with helping Ashworth integrate and strengthen The FA’s elite performance and coaching programme across the England senior and development teams at St. George’s Park.”

The former West Ham United and Bolton Wanderers manager has spoken of his joy at being given the job, and adds that it is ‘time to deliver’ on the international stage.

“I am extremely honoured to be appointed England manager especially as it is no secret that this is the role I have always wanted,” said Allardyce. “For me, it is absolutely the best job in English football.

“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.”

Allardyce succeeds Roy Hodgson, who announced his resignation less than one hour after England were knocked out of Euro 2016 at the last-16 stage by Iceland.

The new manager’s first match in charge will be a friendly at Wembley on September 1.