Hodgson takes over at Baggies

Roy Hodgson will replace Roberto Di Matteo as West Bromwich Albion manager just one month after he was sacked by Liverpool.

Hodgson, 63, takes over with West Brom 17th in the table, clear of the relegation zone on goal difference only.

Fulham occupied the same position when Hodgson took over at Craven Cottage in 2007 before guiding the club to safety in the last match of the season.

“West Bromwich Albion are delighted to announce they have appointed Roy Hodgson as the club’s new head coach,” the club said in a statement.

“The 63-year-old former Inter Milan, Switzerland, Fulham and Liverpool boss has this morning committed himself to the club until June 2012.”

Hodgson was voted manager of the year by the League Managers’ Association last season after guiding Fulham to the Europa League final.

His achievements earned him a move to Liverpool, but he was dismissed on January 8 in favour of fans’ favourite Kenny Dalglish after the club struggled for form in the first half of the season.

Caretaker Michael Appleton will take charge for West Brom’s home match against relegation rivals West Ham United on Saturday.

Hodgson’s first game as manager will come in another basement battle with local rivals Wolverhampton Wanderers on February 20.

He will have a chance for revenge on his former employers when Liverpool visit the Hawthorns on April 2.