The Premier League strugglers Sunderland have announced that former West Ham boss Sam Allardyce has appointed as club’s new manager on a two-year contract.

The 60-year-old replaces Dick Advocate at the Stadium of Light in the hope of avoiding yet another relegation.

Advocaat left the north-east club to return to the Netherlands last week after the 2-2 draw with the Hammers.

ALLARDYCE APPOINTED: Sam Allardyce has been appointed as the new manager of #SAFC. http://t.co/efniZpTfuw pic.twitter.com/H6d3SleqDQ

— Sunderland AFC (@SunderlandAFC) October 9, 2015

Sunderland are without a Premier League win so far this season and currently lying second to last in the standings on three points.

Allardyce, who has also coached Bolton and Blackburn – becomes the first manager to command both Sunderland and Newcastle United.

He told to the club’s official website: “I’m looking forward to working with the players and of course I will be relying on the help of the Sunderland supporters, whose tremendous passion I have experienced first-hand”

His first match as Black Cats’ manager will be at West Brom next Saturday.

Allardyce shares his memories on Twitter after the appointment

Fond memories of the Roker Roar as a player. Now let’s make some positive memories at the Stadium of Light. What a fantastic place to be

— Sam Allardyce (@OfficialBigSam) October 9, 2015

Many thanks to all the well wishing tweeters. Much appreciated

— Sam Allardyce (@OfficialBigSam) October 9, 2015