Chris Hughton Appointed Norwich City Manager After Paul Lambert's Departure

Hughton Appointed Norwich Boss
|

Norwich have confirmed the appointment of Chris Hughton as their new manager.

The 53-year-old replaces Paul Lambert at Carrow Road, following the Scot's decision to leave for Barclays Premier League rivals Aston Villa.

Hughton was in charge at Birmingham but had been granted permission by the Championship side to speak to the Canaries.

Hughton has penned a three-year deal at Carrow Road and takes with him three members of his Blues backroom staff - assistant manager Colin Calderwood, first-team coach Paul Trollope and chief scout Ewan Chester.

The former Newcastle boss admits the offer of a return to Barclays Premier League football with the Canaries was too good to turn down.

"As soon as the call came, due to the standing Norwich have, and their Premier League status, it was something that excited me," Hughton said. "I'm very excited about the challenge ahead.

"It has all be done so suddenly and I am delighted to be here."

Hughton took Birmingham to fourth in the npower Championship but his team were knocked out in the play-off semi-finals by Blackpool.

"It was difficult to leave Birmingham," he added. "I had a very good year there and the supporters have been excellent with me.

"It's a wonderful club and I had a good relationship with the staff and the players so I'm grateful to them for allowing me to have this opportunity."