Alan Pardew has admitted that he is "looking forward" to the challenge of guiding West Bromwich Albion away from relegation trouble after being appointed as the club's new manager.

The former Newcastle United and Crystal Palace boss, handed a deal until the end of the 2019-20 campaign, succeeds Tony Pulis at The Hawthorns.

Pardew is tasked with lifting spirits at the West Midlands outfit following a tough run, which has seen Albion win just two of their last 22 games stretching into last season.

Speaking to his new side's official website upon his arrival, the 56-year-old said: "I'm thrilled with the opportunity Albion have provided and looking forward to getting to work with what I consider to be a talented group of players.

"The immediate challenge will be to get the results we need to pull ourselves up the table. But I'm aware that while I'm joining one of the great, traditional clubs of English football, it is one determined to go forward in the Premier League. It's an exciting opportunity to play a part in that ambition."

Pardew welcomes former club Palace to The Hawthorns on Saturday afternoon, before preparing his side for trips to Swansea City and Liverpool.