Di Canio: I do not support fascism

Newly appointed Sunderland boss Paolo Di Canio made an attempt of closing the books on the controversy around his alleged extreme right views by stating he does not support fascism.

The Italian has replaced Martin O’Neil in charge of Sunderland, but the appointment was heavily criticized by many fans, pundits and the politicians alike. Sunderland’s vice-chairman David Miliband has resigned from his position as a sign of protest.

Di Canio released a statement on an official Sunderland web-site in a bid to draw a final line under the criticism. The statement read: I have clearly stated that I do not wish to speak about matters other than football, however, I have been deeply hurt by the attacks on the football club.

“This is an historic, proud and ethical club and to read and hear some of the vicious and personal accusations is painful. I am an honest man, my values and principles come from my family and my upbringing.

“I feel that I should not have to continually justify myself to people who do not understand this. However, I will say one thing only, I am not the man some people like to portray.

“I am not political, I do not affiliate myself to any organisation, I am not a racist and I do not support the ideology of fascism. I respect everyone.
“I am a football man and this and my family are my focus. I will speak only of football.”