Scott Parker has been confirmed as West Ham’s head coach, taking over from Nuno Espírito Santo, who was sacked on Tuesday . The club’s former midfielder arrives on a two-and-a-half year contract with the team eighth in the Championship and takes charge of his first game at Cardiff on Wednesday.

West Ham hope that Parker, a promotion specialist, can spark a revival after defeats in their past two matches. The 46-year-old has led Burnley, Bournemouth and Fulham into the top flight.

West Ham kept faith with Nuno after last season’s relegation from the Premier League but acted after they were beaten at home by West Brom last Saturday. Parker has been out of work since leaving Burnley after their relegation from the Premier League last April.

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