Paolo Di Canio: 'I saved Sunderland'

Paolo Di Canio has suggested that his arrival at Sunderland was the catalyst in the club's successful bid to avoid relegation.

The Italian replaced Martin O'Neill as manager at the end of March, earning two wins and two draws in his six games so far.

The Black Cats are safe going into tomorrow's final day, and Di Canio believes a trophy may even be on the horizon for the club.

"I have to be honest, yes, I think we would have gone down [had I not arrived]," Di Canio said.

"In my opinion the team was down. Some people said I would be too hard and would stress the players, but we have recovered mental energy.

"After 40 years [since Sunderland won the FA Cup in 1973] can we win another final? I think we can have a magic combination. Only the future can tell if I'm right but I think Paolo Di Canio will be right. I hope we can celebrate one day."

Sunderland face Tottenham Hotspur at 4pm tomorrow afternoon.