Di Canio targets early comeback

Paolo Di Canio, who injured knee ligaments in the 2-0 Premiership win against Charlton, has set his sights on a West Ham return against Newcastle.

Di Canio, who has returned home to Italy for specialist treatment, thought his playing career could be under threat when he was carried off at Upton Park but a scan revealed nothing worse than a medial ligament strain.

"Paolo is confident he will be back in time for the final game of the season against Bolton," said West Ham manager Glenn Roeder today."He has even given himself a chance of making the match at Newcastle on 27 April, which would be a real bonus."

Meanwhile, Roeder was due at the Football Association's Soho Square headquarters today to speak on behalf of his Australian defender Hayden Foxe, who has been charged with violent conduct following an incident with Fulham striker Barry Hayles on 3 November.

Hayles, who faces a similar charge following a sending-off against Everton, has pleaded guilty and faces anything up to a six-match ban.