David Moyes: Sunderland appoint former Everton and Manchester United manager on four-year deal

The 53-year-old Scot replaces Sam Allardyce, who was appointed as manager of the England national team on Friday

Moyes has not managed in the Premier League since his dismissal from United (Sunderland AFC)

David Moyes has been appointed as the new manager of Sunderland on a four-year deal.

The 53-year-old Scot returns to Premier League management for the first time since his dismissal from Manchester United in April 2014.

Moyes replaces Sam Allardyce at the Stadium of Light, who was confirmed as the new manager of the England national team on Friday.

Ellis Short, the Sunderland chairman, said: “We are absolutely delighted to welcome David Moyes to Sunderland, who was by far and away our first choice.

“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.”

Moyes said: “I am delighted to have joined Sunderland. I am relishing the challenge and excited by the opportunity.

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

“I look forward to continuing the good work done by Sam,” the former Preston, Everton and Real Sociedad coach added.