The English Football Association on Friday confirmed what had been speculated for weeks – Sam Allardyce is the new manager of the England football team. The 61-year-old has signed a two-year contract, up to the 2018 World Cup, and will take up the role with immediate effect, according to a statement on the FA's website.

Allardyce was the unanimous choice of the FA's three-man selection panel, the statement added, after reports said United States manager Jurgen Klinsmann and Arsenal's Arsene Wenger were on the shortlist. However, Allardyce was always the favourite, according to the British media.

This means that Allardyce will leave Sunderland, who he has managed since October last year. Allardyce has been at the helm of nine clubs in a managerial career of 25 years. He will also be England’s fourth manager in the last 10 years, replacing Roy Hodgson, who was sacked after the Three Lions were knocked out of the round of 16 in Euro 2016.

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."