Breaking news:
Lawrie Sanchez has been confirmed as Fulham's manager on a permanent basis after stepping down as Northern Ireland boss.
The former Wycombe chief has decided to quit his role with Northern Ireland so that he can concentrate full-time on the job at Craven Cottage.
Sanchez took caretaker charge of Fulham last month after the sacking of Chris Coleman and he has guided them to Premiership safety.
The 46-year-old has been handed an "indefinite rolling contract" by Fulham chairman Mohamed Al Fayed.
Sanchez was delighted to be given the Fulham job on a full-time basis, but expressed sadness at having to leave his role with Northern Ireland.
"I am delighted to be given this opportunity to manage Fulham Football club and I am looking forward to the new season and the challenges that lie ahead," Sanchez told the club's official website.
"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 re-paid 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."
The Irish Football Association will now begin their search for a new manager to lead the team for the rest of their Euro 2008 qualifying campaign as they look to qualify for the finals in Austria and Switzerland.
skysports.com
This is a good thing for Fulham, i think Sanchez is a great manager, but it is a major loss to Nothern Ireland who have performed well under his coaching.
. i recommend berbatov or torres for next season.