Fulham have appointed former Inter Milan and Blackburn Rovers boss Roy Hodgson as their new manager, the Premier League club announced on Friday.
The 60-year-old, who has signed a long-term contract which starts on Dec. 30, takes over from Lawrie Sanchez who was sacked as the club struggle at third from the bottom of the league.
"I am delighted to have been offered this opportunity with Fulham," said Hodgson, whose first job in charge will be against Chelsea on Tuesday with caretaker manager Ray Lewington in charge of yesterday's game at Birmingham City.
PHOTO: AFP
"After long talks with the chairman and the board I am convinced that we can take the club to a new level. I am determined that we will overcome the current position, which I understand will be a challenge, but one that I will relish," Hodgson said. "I am very much looking forward to training with the team on Sunday and will of course be at St. Andrews tomorrow to watch the vital clash against Birmingham City."
Following a moderately successful playing career at Crystal Palace and then later in non-league soccer at clubs Tonbridge, Maidstone United and Gravesend and Northfleet, Hodgson first achieved success as a manager in Sweden.
His first success on the international stage was as manager of Switzerland, leading them to the finals of the 1994 World Cup and the finals of the 1996 European Championships.
He took charge of Finland for the Euro 2008 qualification campaign and almost guided them to their first major tournament.
"I believe that Roy has immense experience in all areas of football and can drive this club forward for the long term," Fulham owner Mohamed Al Fayed said. "My commitment to this club has never dwindled and I am more than ever determined that we have the right man to turn round our current predicament and build for a successful future."
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