Allardyce set to sign with West Ham

Sam ALLARDYCE is relishing the challenge of returning West Ham to the Premier League as he looks set to be confirmed as the Hammers' new boss.

The club's hunt for the man they will entrust to take them back to the top flight seemed to be edging to a successful conclusion last night with Allardyce thought to be close to taking over on a two-year deal.

And the man himself has effectively confirmed his appointment, saying: "I look forward to taking charge after I have had a family holiday.

"It's always difficult dealing with the aftermath of relegation, but I want to get West Ham back into the Premier League as quickly as possible."

West Ham sacked Avram Grant last month after their relegation to the npower Championship was confirmed with a game to spare, and a number of names, such as Dave Jones, Neil Warnock and Malky Mackay, had all been touted.

But it is understood that Allardyce impressed co-owners David Gold and David Sullivan so much that he could be unveiled on a two-year deal as early as today. It will be Allardyce's first job since he was sacked by Blackburn in December.