Hodgson appointed England manager

01 May 2012 15:10
Baggies boss leaves to sign four year deal

Roy Hodgson will leave West Bromwich Albion at the end of the season and sign a four year contract to become England manager.

The FA officially approached Albion on Sunday evening to speak with Hodgson about becoming the next England boss.

The 64-year-old – who was in contract negotiations with Albion – has decided to accept the FA’s opportunity and will stand down from his role at the club after Albion’s final game of the season against Arsenal.

Jeremy Peace, Albion Chairman, said the hunt for Roy’s successor would start immediately. He commented: "Roy's appointment as England Manager is obviously disappointing news for the Club as we would have liked him to sign a new contract, which was in the process of negotiation, and remain as our Head Coach.

"But we understand Roy's desire to take the England job and he will leave us after the Arsenal game on May 13 with our best wishes.

"Of course, with Euro 2012 around the corner, we appreciate that some of Roy's focus over the next 12 days will be on England matters.

"But we are delighted he will be seeing the season out with us.

"With the help of the coaching staff, he will prepare the team in his usual, meticulous manner as we finish what has already been a successful season. "The Board will now concentrate on the important task of appointing a new Head Coach to continue our project as we prepare for a third successive season in the Barclays Premier League.

"We did not want Roy to leave and he will be a tough act to follow.

"But I want to reassure our supporters that we will do everything possible to identify and appoint the right Head Coach for this Football Club.

"I would also like to thank the FA Chairman, David Bernstein, for the sensitive and professional manner in which he has liaised with me in bringing about Roy's appointment.

"Everyone here would like to wish Roy, The FA and England all the best for Euro 2012 and beyond."

Who do you want to replace Hodgson? Have your say at Baggies Banter. 

Source: FOOTYMAD