Dickov’s salute to great character Canio

Paul Dickov: admires opponent’s dedication to the game

PAUL Dickov has paid tribute to Swindon boss Paolo Di Canio ahead of pitting his wits against him tomorrow.

The game, at Boundary Park, features two of the more animated bosses in npower League One.

Di Canio has attracted controversy for some of his antics on the touchline, but Dickov has no problem with the fiery Italian — he once swopped shirts with him after doing battle in the Premier League.

“I think he’s a great character,” said Dickov of the Robins boss, who last season guided ambitious Swindon to the League Two title.

“Some people give him stick for being a bit over-zealous on the touchline but he’s passionate.

“He loves his football. He showed that when he played and is showing it now as a manager.”

Dickov has slight injury concerns over Cristian Montano and Lee Croft.

But Athletic’s manager is confident of another positive result to maintain an excellent run of form.

“There is a really good atmosphere around the place at the moment,” Dickov said. “But I can’t get too carried away with that and the players can’t either.”

“The teams up at the top of the league are the consistent ones — and we have to get that consistency.”