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Di Canio has said his side need to acquire a mean streak in order to be successful. PA Wire/PA Wire/Press Association Images
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'Players right to dive' - Di Canio

The Italian has criticised his players’ “honesty” following Swindon’s 2-0 defeat by Macclesfield, with the manager claiming his side need to develop a “nasty” streak.

SWINDON MANAGER PAOLO Di Canio – who was renowned for his eccentric onfield personality, tendency to score spectacular goals and occasional demonstrations of fair play as a player – has said he will encourage his players to dive in order to win penalties.

Di Canio was speaking after a 2-0 defeat to Macclesfield, in which Swindon player Matt Ritchie’s penalty appeal was rejected when he stayed on his feet, despite seemingly being impeded by the onrushing goalkeeper Jose Veiga.

And commenting on the incident, Di Canio told the BBC:

“From now on I will bring in a different culture because this was a red card and penalty.”

He indicated that the decision coost his side the game, and so, Di Canio was left to rue his player’s honesty:

“He [Ritchie] was too honest but it wasn’t malicious – he [Veiga] had no intentions. You can’t stay on your feet just because you want to be honest.”

Di Canio went on to suggest that his team’s indifferent form was due their unwillingness to display a “nasty” streak and compared his players to “chihuahuas”.

These remarks are not the first time that Di Canio has been the subject of controversy this season. The Italian previously faced criticism when he was seen fighting with one of his players in front of the TV cameras following a disappointing result.

For more information, visit the BBC Sport website>

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