Butcher left his job as coach of Sydney FC in February

The former England captain will take charge on 7 May, two days after the final game of the season at Tranmere.

"I'm thrilled and delighted to be here," he told the club website. "I was impressed by the board and the chairman and their plans for the club's future."

Youth team coach Barry Quin has been in temporary charge since the departure of previous boss Scott Fitzgerald.

Bees chairman Greg Dyke said: "We are delighted to have obtained the services of Terry Butcher as manager.

"His record as a player is second to none and stands as an inspiration to others.

His record as a player is second to none and stands as an inspiration to others Brentford chairman Greg Dyke

"We were particularly impressed by his four-year record at Motherwell where under his leadership and guidance the club competed well above expectations.

"With that experience under his belt we believe that Terry is the right person to lead the Brentford fightback."

Butcher added: "I'm aware of everybody's desire to bounce back into League One and I want to start that process as soon as possible. I'm really looking forward to the challenge."

He also intends to appoint an assistant manager with experience of working in the lower divisions.

The former Ipswich captain is currently assistant manager at Scottish Division One side Thistle.

606: DEBATE The announcement reminds me of the excitement when Steve Coppell was made our manager in 2001 IW

Butcher made his name at Portman Road and went on to play for Rangers before becoming player/manager at Coventry and Sunderland.

He then managed Raith Rovers and worked with Dundee United and Motherwell before becoming manager at Fir Park in 2002.

Last year, he moved to Australia to become head coach of Sydney before returning to Britain two months ago.