• Premier League

Di Canio promises attacking football at Sunderland

ESPN staff
June 9, 2013
Paolo Di Canio thrived under the pressure at Sunderland towards the end of last season © PA Photos
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Paolo Di Canio has promised an attacking brand of football at Sunderland next season.

The Italian moved to Wearside in late March to replace Martin O'Neill as the club's manager. Guiding the club to safety, the 44-year-old was forced to work under intense pressure and scrutiny as he forged a makeshift squad due to injuries and suspensions.

Now afforded the benefit of a full pre-season schedule with his players, Di Canio has revealed the type of play he intends to cultivate at the Stadium of Light.

"Yes, I want to attack," he told the Sunderland Echo. "I don't want to see my team stay too deep. We know you have to defend because there are many top sides in the Premier League. But we also need the quality to put the opponents in their own half during the game and play football, not just counter-attack.

"The best teams can counter with three passes and you need that. But I want a mix of football - a team capable of keeping the opposition in their own half, damaging them with movement, quality and intelligent play, and also to counter. It means we need to have quality, athleticism and intelligence. It's not easy, but I'm sure we can be that team."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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