West Ham United legend Paolo di Canio admits he has ambitions of managing his former club.

Di Canio yesterday spelled out his ­ambitious plan to kick-start his managerial career next season.

He said: "Everybody knows I love West Ham and it would be my dream to be their manager one day.

"But first of all I need to prove I am good enough to do the job and show my quality as a coach. Wherever I start it should be good for the club and for Paolo Di Canio."

The 41-year-old former Lazio, Celtic and West Ham striker has been studying football management in Italy but wants to use his coaching badges in England first.

The Upton Park legend added: "Italy is my country but England is my home.

"When I go back there it's like I have never left."