Sunderland appoints Sam Allardyce as manager on 2-year deal

Sunderland appoints Sam Allardyce as manager on 2-year deal

SUNDERLAND, AP:

Sunderland says it has hired Sam Allardyce as its new manager on a two-year contract.

Allardyce replaces Dick Advocaat after the Dutchman quit last weekend following a 2-2 draw at home to West Ham.

Sunderland surrendered a two-goal lead in the game and has only three points from eight matches so far in the Premier League, leaving it second from bottom in the standings.

Allardyce says "I hope to be able to help to bring the stability and success that everyone wants."

The 60-year-old Allardyce, who has also managed West Ham, Blackburn, Newcastle and Bolton in England's top flight, will face West Brom in his first game as manager on October 17.