FA confirm Hodgson appointment

Roy Hodgson has signed a four-year deal to take over as England manager, the FA have confirmed.

The 64-year-old will step down from his role at West Bromwich Albion following the club’s final two games of the Premier League season to begin preparations for Euro 2012.

Hodgson held successful discussions with the FA at Wembley on Monday and, though his contract with the club was set to expire on June 30, he will be released from his duties on May 13 following the final game of the season against Arsenal.

Hodgson’s first two games in charge will be friendlies with Norway and Belgium on May 26 and June 2 respectively before England’s opening Euro 2012 game against France on June 11.

West Brom chairman Jeremy Pearce has revealed that the club hoped to retain Hodgson’s services, but wished the former Liverpool boss well.

“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,” Pearce said.

“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.”

Hodgson has extensive international experience, beginning his managerial career at Swedish side Halmstad in 1976.

He has since managed the national sides of Switzerland, United Arab Emirates and Finland, as well as clubs in Italy and England.