LONDON: Bob Bradley has become the first American to manage a leading league club in Europe – and in the Premier League – after being appointed by Swansea after their sacking of Francesco Guidolin.

Swansea’s American owners ran out of patience with Guidolin after Saturday’s 2-1 home defeat against Liverpool.

Bradley, who has been in charge at Le Havre in the French second division, impressed Swansea chairmna Huw Richards during the interview process and now earns the distinction of becoming the first American to manage in the Premier League.

His first game in charge will be against Arsenal on Saturday week.

Jenkins said: “We are obviously disappointed to part company with Francesco. We felt he deserved his opportunity after the work he did last season. Unfortunately we have not been able to carry performances over from last season and we felt we needed to change things as soon as possible in order to move forward in a positive way.

“We are delighted Bob has agreed to join us. He is highly regarded as a coach and has a wealth of experience on the international and domestic front.

“He is well aware of the club’s footballing philosophy and will provide us with strong leadership qualities and a renewed belief to compete at this level.

“It is never easy changing managers, but we are looking at a long-term appointment and we are confident Bob can settle us down and stabilise matters on and off the pitch.”

Bradley will inherit a Swansea side that lies 17th in the Premier League table, outside the relegation zone only on goal difference. Saturday’s loss to Liverpool was a fifth defeat in six league games.

He is best known for his five years in charge of the United States national team, with highlights including a run to the 2009 Confederations Cup final that included a victory over then European champions Spain.

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