Swindon boss Paolo Di Canio reckons his Wembley-bound players do not love him - but insists they love playing for him.
Italian admits similarities with compatriot Capello
Swindon boss Paolo Di Canio reckons his Wembley-bound players do not love him - but insists they love playing for him.
The 43-year-old will lead the League Two pacesetters out at Wembley on Sunday when they face Chesterfield in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy final.
Di Canio is enjoying a dream debut season in management with the Wiltshire club sitting seven points clear at the top of League Two, along with their visit to the iconic stadium.
And he says his leadership style is similar to fellow Italian, and former England boss, Fabio Capello, who managed Di Canio at Milan in the mid-1990s.
Happening
"I don't imitate him, although it was Capello who taught me that you don't have to love me, just follow me," said the Swindon boss.
"Most of my players don't love me, but they love working with me.
"They're enjoying being part of this. They can see things happening."
Di Canio hopes the first step of his Swindon revolution will be beating League One strugglers Chesterfield to lift the JPT.
And the former West Ham and Sheffield Wednesday star believes the players - and himself - will thrive on the big stage.
"Swindon can savour Wembley because it is a dream. How many players would give everything to have this chance?" he said.
Emotion
"I'll tell them, 'Don't be shy, express yourself, be confident and positive, like me'. This is a beautiful dream and we'll win.
"I want to play a wonderful game, although more, I want to win. I thrive on intensity and emotion and this is my perfect stage.
"I am glad to be manager of Swindon, this is my Barcelona. We are not Manchester United but we are important and it is an amazing situation.
"I am improving and learning and so are my players."
