Former West Ham and Charlton boss Alan Pardew has been confirmed as the new Newcastle United manager.
The 49-year-old, sacked by League One side Southampton earlier this season, has signed a five-and-a-half year deal to succeed Chris Hughton, who was surprisingly sacked by the Magpies on Monday.
Pardew said: “I am honoured and privileged to have been given this opportunity at Newcastle United, one of the truly great clubs in English football.
“I understand what this club means to its supporters. Throughout the football world people recognise that this is a unique club in many easy, with supporters who are second to none in their loyalty, passion and devotion for the team.
“I’m not a Geordie, of course, but I’m a football person with a love of the game and I can assure you I bring great drive, desire and commitment to the job.”
He continued: “Chris Hughton did a great job last season, guiding the club back to the Premier League, and he continued that good work this season. It is my aim to build on that now and take this club forward.
“I have always managed teams that have played attacking positive football, something I know the supporters here appreciate.
“At the same time, I intend to focus on developing exciting young players through the club’s excellent Academy and development squad, and I know the board here at St James’ Park are very committed to that too.”
Pardew’s first match in charge of the Magpies is the home game against Liverpool on Saturday.