West Ham United legend Paolo di Canio has urged fans to stick with their struggling team.

Di Canio believes the claret and blue army can act as a 12th man as Gianfranco Zola's side aim to move up the Barclays Premier League table.

"For me I still have great memories," Di Canio told WHUTV. "The skin would burn every time I stepped out at Upton Park. The relationship with West Ham fans is something special. It is difficult to explain because it is something you feel inside in your heart.

"I am the kind of person who thinks that what I did, what I gave to the people, is nothing to compare with what they give to you. For this I could not expect this kind of reception from them. They are fantastic fans and they are so special and they deserve only satisfaction.

"It is not a time to think about an ex-footballer like Paolo Di Canio because my spirit, heart and soul are still at Upton Park. I know that they love me and I love them. Now is the moment to stay close to the team, try to help them and let them play the best they can to get out of the situation."