Fulham appoint Hodgson

Fulham have appointed former Inter Milan and Blackburn boss Roy Hodgson as their new manager, the Premier League club announced on Friday.
The 60-year-old, who has signed a long-term contract which starts on December 30, takes over from Lawrie Sanchez who was sacked as the club struggle third from the bottom of the league.
"I am delighted to have been offered this opportunity with Fulham," said Hodgson whose first job in charge will be against Chelsea on January 1 with caretaker manager Ray Lewington in charge of Saturday's game at Birmingham.
"After long talks with the Chairman and the board I am convinced that we can take the club to a new level. I am determined that we will overcome the current position, which I understand will be a challenge, but one that I will relish.
"I am very much looking forward to training with the team on Sunday, and will of course be at St Andrews tomorrow to watch the vital clash against Birmingham City."
Hodgson achieved success on the international stage with Switzerland, leading them to the finals of the 1994 World Cup and 1996 European Championships.
He took charge of Finland for their Euro 2008 qualification campaign and almost guided them to the first major tournament.
Aside from Inter and Blackburn Hodgson also coached another Italian side Udinese.
Fulham owner Mohamed Al Fayed said: "It is my vision to combine the best of the fantastic traditions of the English Premier League with the flair and innate professionalism of the continental game - which I hope will return Fulham to its tradition of playing attractive, passing football.
"I believe that Roy has immense experience in all areas of football and can drive this club forward for the long term.
"My commitment to this club has never dwindled, and I am more than ever determined that we have the right man to turn round our current predicament and build for a successful future."
Cottager's defender Chris Baird had expected former Fulham midfielder John Collins to take over, following his departure from Hibernian last week.
Baird told Sky Sports News: "I'm very surprised - we thought John Collins was going to be the next manager but we were kept in the dark."