Having been in the Sunderland end at Chelsea today, they were very, very excited to have him and sung his name throughout. Sunderland were the better side for 45 minutes and deserved the 1-0 half time lead. 2 freak goals from Chelsea allowed them to win it and their quality showed in the end. Di Canio's Sunderland played the neat football we became accustomed to and I overheard some supporters say 'I've never seen us play like this for fuckin' ages'. Di Canio was quite mellow and no plastic panels were put through! Overall, the majority of Sunderland fans seem pleased to have him and I think he'll do well for them. I'm sure a few fans looked at me funny when I didn't really/half heartedly sang 'Paolo Di Canio' with my arms folded...I'm sure they'd have understood if I told them why!
What I've heard from geordies/mackems I know who watched the game backs up your point, the standard of football is better than for ages. It's not a slight on their old manager, just an observation. Real test will be the derby next week. Di Canio doesn't do derbies well, as we've found out...
I think he'll keep their head above water. If he can get Adam Johnson playing to the best of his abilities (like he did with Ritchie), they will be safe.
That jumper was fucking horrid though, not a patch on his green coat/beanie.
