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LONDON - Former Charlton Athletic coach Alan Curbishley was appointed manager of West Ham United today, the English Premier league soccer club said on its website.
Curbishley, who had been Charlton's manager until the end of last season, was widely tipped to take over at Upton Park after predecessor Alan Pardew was sacked on Monday.
Curbishley, who played for West Ham from 1975-79, takes charge of a side lying in 18th place in the 20-team league after five defeats in six games. Charlton are in 19th.
Curbishley, who becomes only West Ham's 11th manager in the last 104 years, said: "I am deeply, deeply delighted. I am looking forward to the challenge. It's a privilege to be here."
His first match will be this weekend's home game against league leaders Manchester United.
- REUTERS