Sam Allardyce appointed England manager

The Football Association has appointed experienced Premier League boss Sam Allardyce as England manager.

The 61-year-old signed an initial two-year deal after compensation was agreed with Sunderland, whom he helped avoid relegation last season.  

Allardyce becomes England’s 14th full-time manager and replaces Roy Hodgson, who resigned after his side were embarrassingly knocked out of Euro 16 by Iceland.

“I am extremely honoured to be appointed England manager especially as it is no secret that this is the role I have always wanted,” he said. “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 club. I know we have talented, committed players and it is time for us to deliver.”

FA chief executive Martin Glenn said that Allardyce was the “outstanding choice” for England manager.

“He has excellent managerial credentials, including his ability to realise the potential of players and teams, develop a strong team ethos and embrace modern methods that enhance performance,” he said. "We could not help but be energised by his personal perspective on England's future.

Allardyce's first competitive match will be in Slovakia on 4 September as England start their qualifying campaign for the 2018 World Cup.

He leaves Sunderland after nine months at the helm, leaving the Black Cats are looking for their ninth manager in eight years

"The focus of everyone at Sunderland AFC is on moving forward quickly and decisively, with the appointment of the club's new manager to be confirmed at the earliest opportunity,” a club statement read.

Allardyce previously managed Bolton, Newcastle, Blackburn and West Ham. He has never won a major trophy but has won promotion to the Premier League with Bolton, Newcastle and West Ham.