Alongside former Rovers manager Graeme Souness and ex- England boss Steve McClaren, Allardyce was a firm favorite to land the Blackburn post.

Following intensive negotiations with the 54-year-old tactician on Tuesday night, the Ewood Park outfit announced the official appointment of Allardyce on Wednesday.

"Blackburn Rovers are delighted to announce the appointment of Sam Allardyce as manager with immediate effect," read a club statement.

"Sam has signed a three-year contract."

After managing the likes of Preston North End, Blackpool and Notts County, Allardyce made his name with Bolton Wonderers from 1999 to 2007, taking the club to the Premiership and reaching the UEFA Cup for the first time in Bolton's history.

however, Allardyce has been without a job since getting sacked by Newcastle United in January 2008.

Blackburn parted ways with Ince, after a run of dismal results saw the team fall to 19th spot as they now face a mountain mission to stay in the English top flight.

The former England international took control of the club in the summer, after the departure of Mark Hughes, whom the club finished seventh under his guidance last season.