London, April 1 : Paolo Di Canio has become the new coach of English Premier League club Sunderland, replacing Martin O'Neill to save the relegation-threatened team.

"Sunderland AFC have confirmed the appointment of Paolo Di Canio as Head Coach on a two-and-a-half year deal," said a club statement Sunday.

Di Canio, 44, scored more than 100 goals in over 500 appearances as a player with Lazio, Juventus, Napoli, AC Milan, Celtic and West Ham among others.

He retired in 2008 and was appointed manager of Swindon in 2011, leading the team up a division into the third tier the following year. (IANS)