West Bromwich Albion have named Tony Pulis as their new head coach on a two-and-a-half-year deal.

The 56-year-old had been the leading contender to take over the vacant position in charge at The Hawthorns following the departure of Alan Irvine earlier this week.

Pulis, who boasts the record of never suffering relegation as a manager, takes over a West Brom side currently 16th in the Premier League table following a run of three-successive defeats.

A statement on the club's official website confirmed the appointment, with the Welshman adding: "I'm absolutely delighted to accept the job and I do so with a simple but important message for the Albion fans and everyone at the club.

"Every successful club is built on unity and that is what I shall strive to help bring to Albion. We need everyone together from top to bottom – the supporters, all the staff, the players, everyone who has an interest in the club's welfare.

"With that, we can go forward together and hopefully take this club up the Premier League."

Newport-born Pulis was named as Premier League manager of the year last season for his impressive work at Crystal Palace, although a disagreement over transfer spending led to him leaving the Eagles on the eve of the new campaign.

Pulis will watch his new side take on West Ham United from the stands this afternoon, before taking up the Baggies hotseat ahead of the FA Cup third-round meeting against Gateshead at the weekend.