'Stay close to the team'

Paolo Di Canio has instructed the fans who adore him to get 100 per cent behind West Ham United in their upcoming Barclays Premier League fixtures.

In an exclusive interview with WHUTV, the Hammers legend has called for all the supporters' energies to be focused on helping their team prevail in the key matches with Hull CIty and Burnley.

The 41-year-old, speaking during a recent visit to London, believes the claret and blue army can act as a 12th man as Gianfranco Zola's side aim to move up the Barclays Premier League table.

"For me I still have great memories," said Di Canio. "The skin would burn every time I stepped out at Upton Park. The relationship with West Ham fans is something special. It is difficult to explain because it is something you feel inside in your heart.

"I am the kind of person who thinks that what I did, what I gave to the people, is nothing to compare with what they give to you. For this I could not expect this kind of reception from them. They are fantastic fans and they are so special and they deserve only satisfaction.

"It is not a time to think about an ex-footballer like Paolo Di Canio because my spirit, heart and soul are still at Upton Park. I know that they love me and I love them. Now is the moment to stay close to the team, try to help them and let them play the best they can to get out of the situation."

TO SEE DI CANIO'S EXTENSIVE INTERVIEW IN FULL LOG ON TO WHUTV NOW