CONFIRMED: Sam Allardyce unveiled as new England manager

SAM ALLADRYCE has this afternoon been confirmed as the new England boss.

By Colin Harvey and Rhys Turrell

The former Sunderland manager has taken the seat vacated by Roy Hodgson after he stepped down following England's embarrassing 2-1 loss to minnows Iceland in the last 16 of Euro 2016.

It means the 61-year-old has fulfilled a long-held ambition and has landed the role he first applied or 10 years ago.

The FA's three man panel of Martin Glenn, Dan Ashworth and David Gill interviewed a number of candidates before choosing Big Sam.

Steve Bruce, Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe and USA gaffer Jurgen Klinsmann were all in the frame.

However, Allardyce's ability to mould a strong unit and implement strong footballing identity on his team meant he got the gig.

Allardyce said: "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.

"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."

FA chief executive Glenn said: "Sam Allardyce is the right man for the England job.

"His 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, made him the outstanding choice.

THE BOSS: Sam Allardyce has been confirmed as the new England boss

"That was underlined when we sat down to talk and we could not help but be energised by his personal perspective on England’s future and how it complemented the extensive work that we are looking to build on at St. George’s Park.

"Dan Ashworth, David Gill and I have carried out a thorough process in the last three weeks and ultimately we could not look beyond Sam as the ideal candidate."

Allardyce's first game will be a Wembley friendly on September 1 before his competitive debut in the hot seat against Slovakia in a World Cup 2018 qualifier three days later.

Former Manchester United and Everton boss David Moyes has been approached by Sunderland to replace Allardyce at the Stadium of Light.