Paolo Di Canio faces Sunderland revolt?

Sunderland manager Paolo Di Canio reportedly faces an appeal to the Professional Footballers' Association from a number of players over his decision to hand out heavy fines last week.

Di Canio has decided to punish seven players with a fine of two weeks' wages for their unprofessional behaviour, including defender Phil Bardsley.

Despite being pictured celebrating in a casino during the early hours last week, Bardsley has decided to appeal his fine after insisting that his actions did not break club rules, according to The Sun.

A host of other Sunderland players are also believed to be angry after being branded "arrogant" and "ignorant" by Di Canio following the club's final-day defeat to Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday.

The Black Cats finished 17th in the table under Di Canio, three points clear of the relegation zone.