Newcastle United boss Alan Pardew is sorry to see Paolo di Canio sacked by Sunderland.

Pardew has refused to criticise Di Canio after the controversial Italian was axed by rivals Sunderland.

Pardew said: "I am not going to throw any criticism at Paolo. He threw all his enthusiasm and passion at it and gave it everything and I am sad to see him go.

"With my LMA hat on I was disappointed because he attacked the job with his passion and enthusiasm but it hasn't worked out."