Four Four Two had a feature in a recent issue on the 100 best Premier League players ever (remember that football started in 1992). 18 clubs had no such player, including the likes of Oldham and Swindon, but also Crystal Palace.
'Judas' Defoe is there, but his association with Charlton is not mentioned. Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink is at No.71, but he joined us when his powers were fading.
There at No.63 is Paolo di Canio and in my view he did make a real contribution. I remember him coming on at Portsmouth and pumping up the Addickted when he came on and took a corner.
The magazine says: 'Di Canio offered excitement and identity. Combustible, controversial and charismatic ,,, he was the master of the feint, often beating the defender or goalkeeper an extra time before shooting.'
Di Canio did, of course, shove referee the late Paul Alcock. I was far from happy with Alcock after he refereed a 3-3 draw at Anfield which we could have won without his decision-making.
There is no doubt that Di Canio had a temper, but he also showed his softer side by giving Curbs a dessert he had prepared himself when he joined the club.
Some fans were unhappy with his politics, but having spent some time working with Italians, all I would say is that it is a very different country.
Di Canio was a wonderful player to watch. Yes he was a little mad but I always enjoyed watching him. It was a shame he stayed for only one season.
ReplyDeleteFully agree, he lit up the pitch.
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