Paolo Di Canio has hit out at criticism of his political beliefs, after being named as Sunderland’s new manager.
The controversial Italian was brought in by the Black Cats to replace Martin O’Neill over the weekend, with defeat at the hands of Manchester United leaving the North East club perilously close to the relegation zone.
His appointment has led to ex-foreign secretary David Milliband’s resignation from his role on the board at the club, and criticism from some supporters.
Di Canio has previously spoken of his admiration of former Italian dictator Benito Mussolini and was pictured making a raised-arm salute to the crowd whilst playing for Lazio toward the end of his career.
But, the former Swindon Town boss believes his reputation is unfair and that his previous comments were exaggerated by the media:
“What I can say is that if someone is hurt, I am sorry. But this didn’t come from me, it came from a big story that people put out in a different way to what it was.” He said in a statement on the club’s official website.
“I never have a problem in my past. I expressed an opinion in an interview many years ago.
“Some pieces were taken for media convenience. They took my expression in a very, very negative way – but it was a long conversation and a long interview. It was not fair.
“I know it is a part of my job to do interviews because I am well-known, but sometimes it suits their purpose to put big headlines and a big story.”
Some of his comments and actions have led to allegations of negative racial beliefs.
But, Di Canio insists that this is nonsense, and that those who know him can vouch for his character:
“Talk about racism? That is absolutely stupid, stupid and ridiculous. The people who know me can change that idea quickly.
“When I was in England my best friends were Trevor Sinclair and Chris Powell, the Charlton manager – they can tell you everything about my character.
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