Paolo di Canio may just be what Sunderland need

Sunderland owner Elis Short wasted no time in bringing in Martin O'Neill's successor on Wearside and the appointment of the charismatic and controversial Paolo di Canio could provide the spark needed for the Black Cats to stay in the Premier League.

Di Canio can accurately be described as a volatile personality but what Sunderland need right now is a manager who will be able to motivate the players and the Italian can be that kind of influence that the club so desperately need after a dismal run.

Whilst di Canio does not boast any Premier League managerial experience the wonders he worked at Swindon Town were impressive even if the owners of the club described his style as 'hand-grenade management.'

But Short will not care if the former West Ham player can inspire the team he has invested generously in to stay in the Premier League despite a bruising run in involving ties against Chelsea, Newcastle and Everton.

Without even taking charge of one game di Canio's controversial political beliefs have cause quite a stir as former Labour MP immediately stepped down from his post as Vice-Chairman of the club citing the Italian's open support of fascism as the main reason.

Whenever di Canio is involved there are sure to be fireworks and Short will be hoping that his decision to bring a new manager in, and one whose reputation precedes him, will galvanise the Sunderland players and will see the Black Cat's stay in the Premier League extended until next season.

Follow @JerryvanWav