The 61-year-old boss knew the job was his on Wednesday but a compensation package with his club Sunderland needed to be finalised before the announcement could be made.
Allardyce, who begins work immediately, said: “I am extremely honoured to be appointed England manager especially as it is no secret that this is the role I have always wanted. For me, it is absolutely the best job in English football.”
Allardyce, who missed out on the job to Steve McClaren in 2006, was the unanimous choice of a three-man selection panel comprising FA chief executive Martin Glenn, technical director Dan Ashworth and acting chairman David Gill.
It's official. We are delighted to announce that Sam Allardyce is the new manager of the #ThreeLions! pic.twitter.com/7L3y9S62TP
— England (@England) July 22, 2016
Good luck with the @England job Sam Allardici!!
— Jamie Carragher (@Carra23) July 22, 2016
Sam Allardyce is the new England manager. Wish him the very best. It's not the impossible job it's said to be, as I hope big Sam proves.
— Gary Lineker (@GaryLineker) July 22, 2016