Brighton appoint Chris Hughton: Former Newcastle manager replaces Sami Hyypia

The 56-year-old had been out of work since being relieved of his duties by Norwich

Chris Hughton wants to make a rapid return to the dugout (Getty Images)

Chris Hughton is the new manager of Brighton after agreeing a three-and-a-half-year deal to replace Sami Hyypia.

The Sky Bet Championship strugglers announced the appointment on Twitter on Wednesday morning.

The 56-year-old had been out of work since being relieved of his duties by Norwich in April with the club 17th in the Barclays Premier League.

Hughton has Championship pedigree, having led Newcastle to the title in 2009-10 and Birmingham to the play-offs two seasons later.

He takes over a Brighton outfit struggling at the wrong end of the table, although four points from two games under caretaker boss Nathan Jones means he begins his reign with the club outside of the relegation zone by virtue of goal difference.

Hughton's first game in charge will be Saturday's FA Cup third-round tie against Brentford at Griffin Park, where he ended his playing career.

PA