Sanchez quits N Ireland for Fulham

Lawrie Sanchez has quit as Northern Ireland manager with immediate effect after being unveiled as the full-time successor to Chris Coleman at Fulham.

The 47-year-old has been rewarded by chairman Mohamed Al Fayed for keeping the Cottagers in the Premiership on a temporary basis following last weekend's 1-0 home win over Champions League finalists Liverpool.

He told reporters have signed an "indefinite rolling contract": "I am delighted to be given this opportunity to manage Fulham and I am looking forward to the new season and the challenges that lie ahead.

"During my last month or so at Fulham I became increasingly enthused by working daily with players on the training pitch, and the satisfaction that I felt at seeing the end result on a weekly basis.

"The club has an incredibly professional infrastructure worthy of its Premiership status and it is my aim to finish higher than we have before, and to bring the success that the chairman and the supporters deserve for their continued commitment.

"Obviously it is disappointing to not be taking Northern Ireland to the European Championships, but having discussed this at length with the chairman and the board, I understand the importance of focusing solely on the task ahead, and believe that the trust placed in me at this time needs to be repaid with 100 per cent commitment.

"I thoroughly enjoyed my time at the helm of Northern Ireland, and would like to thank everyone involved in that set up for their support of me and wish them every success."

Under Sanchez's reign Northern Ireland's fortunes have been transformed - they are top of Euro 2008 qualifying Group F after claiming four wins and a draw.

The Irish Football Association's official website said: "The Irish FA is obviously aware of the situation between Fulham Football Club and Lawrie Sanchez and we would be the first to congratulate him on his appointment as their new manager and to recognise the outstanding job he has done for Northern Ireland football and the IFA.

"The IFA will be considering its position over the next few days and no further comment or statements will be made."

Sanchez added: "Northern Ireland will be a great job for someone and I leave the team in good shape with them at the top of their Euro 2008 qualifying group.

"I wish them all the best for the future. They're disappointed but I hope they understand my actions. I've always wanted to manage at the highest level and Fulham have given me that opportunity."

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