Sunderland sign Uruguyanan Poyet as new manager

English Premier League club Sunderland have appointed Gustavo Poyet as manager on Tuesday. The 45 year-old has agreed a two year contract at the Stadium of Light and will take charge of the Black Cats with immediate effect.

The Uruguayan replaces controversial Italian Paolo Di Canio, who was sacked last month by bottom-of-the-table Sunderland following a 3-0 defeat at West Bromwich Albion.

Sunderland AFC Chairman, Ellis Short, told the club website: “We analysed a wide range of candidates and believe that Gus's track record, experience, commitment and passion make him the right man to take us forward."

“We welcome him to Sunderland.”

Poyet first arrived in English football as a player with Chelsea in 1997 where he went on to make 105 appearances, scoring 36 goals for the Blues. He then moved to London rivals Tottenham Hotspur in 2001, where he spent three years as a player. He was capped 26 times for his country.

The former LMA manager-of the-year has prior Premier League experience, having coached Tottenham Hotspur before joining manager Juande Ramos at the same club as assistant coach in 2009.

Poyet will be joined at the Stadium of Light by his backroom staff Mauricio Taricco and Charlie Oatway.

Poyet's first match in charge will be against Swansea City on October 19. 

Photograph: Mike Hewitt/Getty Images