Sunderland chief executive Margaret Byrne has explained the sacking of Paolo di Canio.

Byrne insists the decision was results driven.

In her programme notes last night Byrne wrote, "While the focus is on tonight's game, I know how disappointed each and every supporter was after Saturday's result at West Brom.

"Everyone at the club felt the same disappointment.

"After Paolo saved us from relegation last season, we gave him an opportunity to take the club forward this season.

"When it became obvious it wasn't working, we had to take the decision to part company with him.

"We felt it was better to do this now as we ran the risk of being cut adrift at the bottom of the Barclays Premier League.

"We wish Paolo and his staff well for the future. Tonight there is a place in the last 16 of the competition at stake and we want to progress.

"We are asking you to get behind Kevin Ball and the team."