Football: DI CANIO: LET ME SAVE HAMMERS

PAOLO Di Canio has pleaded with Trevor Brooking to let him save West Ham from relegation in today's do-or-die clash at Birmingham.

Di Canio, who will leave West Ham after this afternoon's game, broke down in tears as fans described him as an Upton Park legend and now wants a grand finale.

He believes he can end his Hammers career as a hero by scoring to keep them in the top flight.

The temperamental Italian's winner against Chelsea eight days ago gave the Hammers a lifeline and now he wants the lead part in today's nailbiter. He said: "Withmy contribution I've increased our possibilities to remain in the Premiership.

"I do not know if I will start at Birmingham. I could be on the bench, which is understandable because I've been out of the team for two months.

"But like against Chelsea I'm ready to do my bit whenever the manager wants me to go on the pitch. I will be there. I will die for this club to help it survive."

Di Canio was left out of the team after a series of run-ins with Glenn Roeder, who is recovering from a stroke and preparing for a brain operation. Roeder will be watching today's game on television at home.

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