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Hodgson will not be in charge for the match against Birmingham on Saturday. Caretaker boss Ray Lewington and assistant Billy McKinlay will again be in the dugout for that clash after overseeing a 5-1 mauling at Spurs on Boxing Day.

Fulham chairman Mohamed Al Fayed said that he hoped the appointment of former Blackburn manager Hodgson - who has managed all over Europe including two spells at Internazionale - will ensure that the team plays a more attractive passing game.

"It is my vision to combine the best of the fantastic traditions of the English Premier League with the flair and innate professionalism of the continental game, which I hope will return Fulham to its tradition of playing attractive passing football," he told the club's official website.

"I believe that Roy has immense experience in all areas of football and can drive this club forward for the long term.

"My commitment to this club has never dwindled and I am more than ever determined that we have the right man to turn round our current predicament and build for a successful future."

Hodgson helped Switzerland to the 1994 World Cup finals and Euro '96 before almost guiding Finland to next summer's European Championships, which would have been the first major finals in the country's history.

"I am delighted to have been offered this opportunity with Fulham," he said. "After long talks with the chairman and the board I am convinced that we can take the club to a new level.

"I am determined that we will overcome the current position, which I understand will be a challenge, but one that I will relish.

"I am very much looking forward to training with the team on Sunday, and will of course be at St Andrews tomorrow to watch the vital clash against Birmingham City."

Fulham are third from bottom in the Premier League table, two points from safety. Birmingham lie four points ahead of them.

Jonathan Symcox / Eurosport