LONDON (AFP) - Chris Hughton was on Wednesday appointed manager of English second-tier club Brighton and Hove Albion on a three-and-a-half-year contract after the sacking of Sami Hyypia.

"#BHAFC have appointed Chris Hughton as first-team manager on a three-and-a-half-year contract," Brighton announced on their official Twitter page.

Hughton, 56, had been out of work since being sacked by Norwich City in April as the club slid towards relegation from the Premier League.

He has proven Championship pedigree, having steered Newcastle United to the second-tier title in 2009-10 and taken Birmingham City to the play-offs in 2012.

Brighton, who lost to Derby County in last season's play-off semi-finals, are currently in 21st place in the 24-team Championship, above the relegation zone on goal difference.

Former Ireland international Hughton's first match in charge will be Saturday's FA Cup third-round tie against Brentford at Griffin Park, where he ended his playing career.