A host of Sunderland supporters have signed an online petition backing manager Paolo Di Canio's treatment of his players.

The Italian came under criticism when he fined seven players for breaching discipline rules, prompting complaints to the Professional Footballers' Association.

The Back Paolo Di Canio campaign, which was created via Change.org, has so far received over 1,400 signatures.

One supporter, Gary Lamb, told the Sunderland Echo: "I think the vast majority of fans are right behind him. They've had enough of millionaire playboy footballers doing what they want.

"He was absolutely right to leave those players out of the team. If I turned up for work stinking of drink and hungover from the night before, I wouldn't be fined or given a quiet word. I'd be sacked."

Defender Phil Bardlsey was one of the players who were fined, after photographs of him appeared at a casino in the early hours.