LONDON, Dec 28: Fulham have appointed former Inter Milan and Blackburn 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 December 30, takes over from Lawrie Sanchez who was sacked as the club struggle 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 January 1 with caretaker manager Ray Lewington in charge of Saturday’s game at Birmingham.

“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.

“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.”—AFP