The former Liverpool manager is the man the Baggies believe will
win the battle to keep them in the Premier League.
Chris Hughton, axed by Newcastle in December, had been hotly
tipped to replace Roberto Di Matteo.
But chairman Jeremy Peace has opted for Hodgson because of his
success at Fulham.
Struggling Albion - out of the drop zone only on goal difference
- face a relegation six-pointer against rock-bottom West Ham at The
Hawthorns tomorrow, but caretaker boss Michael Appleton is expected
to be in charge for that match.
It is a remarkably swift return to management for Hodgson, 63.
He was sacked by Liverpool on January 8 as he struggled to keep
them in contention for the Champions League places.
Kop supremo John W Henry was forced to take drastic action after
dressing-room and terrace confidence collapsed.
Di Matteo was sacked on Sunday after almost two years in charge.
Hodgson will be the Baggies' NINTH boss since 2000.
