Sunderland have ruled out manager Paolo di Canio's agent helping with transfers.

Sunderland are using Italian agent Roberto De Fanti as a ­consultant to find a replacement for chief scout Bryan 'Pop' Robson, who left last week.

De Fanti, who was approached by owner Ellis Short, could eventually become the ­director of football to work over head coach Di Canio and give up his player agency work.

But Sunderland's hierarchy have insisted there will be no role for Di Canio's agent Phil Spencer, who was Swindon's transfer adviser ­during the Italian's time at the County Ground.

A spokesperson said: "Mr ­Spencer is Paolo Di Canio's agent. He does not work for the club."