Sunderland appoint David Moyes as manager

Sunderland have appointed David Moyes as manager following the departure of Sam Allardyce to the England job.

The Scot has been out of work since he was sacked by Real Sociedad in November but has now signed a four-year contract on Wearside.

"I have taken over a big British club, with a great support, and I'm looking forward to working in the Premier League again," said Moyes.

NEW MANAGER: #SAFC welcomes David Moyes
Full story here: https://t.co/dKWLtDTpPF pic.twitter.com/WIZ6V0rXxn
— Sunderland AFC (@SunderlandAFC) July 23, 2016

The 53-year-old had previously had 11 successful years at Everton before replacing Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United for a season. However, he was sacked after just 10 months in the job.

'By far and away our first choice'

Speaking about the appointment, Sunderland chairman Ellis Short told the club's website: “We are absolutely delighted to welcome David Moyes to Sunderland, who was by far and away our first choice.

David Moyes takes part in a training session

“He is a man whose football pedigree speaks for itself and is someone I have long admired.

"I have spoken with him on many occasions and I have always been hugely impressed. He was my number one managerial target for the last five appointments, but his desire to honour existing contracts meant we were not able to bring him to Sunderland previously.

"To be able to finally welcome him as our manager is fantastic news for the club."

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MOYES: 'I am delighted to have joined Sunderland. I am relishing the challenge and excited by the opportunity.' pic.twitter.com/pFpGOMAGEF
— Sunderland AFC (@SunderlandAFC) July 23, 2016