Sunderland chairman Ellis Short has insisted that Paolo Di Canio is the right man to keep his club in the Premier League.
Di Canio agreed a two-and-half-year deal to succeed Martin O'Neill as head coach at the Stadium of Light earlier today.
With seven league games to play this season, the Black Cats are just one point above the relegation zone following a run of eight games without a win.
Short believes that Di Canio's mix of passion and drive will have a positive impact on Wearside and help the club retain their Premier League status.
He told the club's official website: "Paolo is hugely enthused by the challenge that lies ahead of him. He is passionate, driven and raring to get started.
"The sole focus of everyone for the next seven games will be to ensure we gain enough points to maintain our top-flight status. I think that the chances of that are greatly increased with Paolo joining us.
"Our fans have shown tremendous patience and understanding this season. They have continued to back the team in huge numbers, both home and away, and that is something that continues to inspire all of us in our drive to give them the successful club they deserve. That remains our primary aim."
Di Canio will begin his tenure as Sunderland manager tomorrow ahead of his first game in charge against Chelsea next weekend.
Liam Power
