Paul Gerrard was lying yards outside of his area writhing in agony after rushing out in an attempt to cut out a West Ham attack.

With seconds remaining, Trevor Sinclair picked up the loose ball and sent a cross into the area where the ever-dangerous Paolo Di Canio was waiting.

All that was needed was a well-struck volley and West Ham would steal victory against Everton at Goodison Park.

But instead, Di Canio, without a seconds pause, displayed one of the greatest acts of sportsmanship in football history, opting to catch the ball to allow for Gerrard to be treated.

Such a moment often gets lost when Di Canio's name is brought up, but in a day where such acts are sadly rare, it is one that needs to be highlighted now more than ever, as the Italian prepares to take his first steps in management at Swindon Town.

Passion was something that was sadly lacking from many of the Town players last season, and was a major contributory factor in the club's relegation to League Two.

But under Di Canio – renowned for his dedication and commitment during his time on the pitch – this will no longer be tolerated at the County Ground.

The 42-year-old will demand that his players give 110 per cent in every game they play and it is this kind of effort that will be needed if the Robins are to be real contenders for promotion next season.

Perhaps this journalist is biased, because during my formative years Di Canio was one of the greatest players in the Premier League and was simply a joy to watch, a cursory glance at what West Ham fans think of his imminent appointment goes to show exactly how revered he is by those who were able to watch him play.

His career was not without controversy, but then there are few players who have not done something they would later regret, and there is little doubt that the Di Canio who will be stood in the dugout at SN1 come August will be a more mature one than he perhaps was at times as a player.

There have also been concerns expressed over his loyalty having often declared his desire to one day return to West Ham, but what up-coming manager does not have his ultimate target? Lee Clark, the Huddersfield Town manager, has always stated his dream to become Newcastle manager one day, yet he is currently in his third year at the helm of the Terriers.

Of course his appointment is a risk, as it would be in handing an opportunity to any rookie manager.

But the Town board have undoubtedly thought all of this through, and the length of time they have taken in choosing a replacement for Paul Hart is proof alone is that they have carefully considered all the pros and cons and are of the belief this is the right move to take Town forward.

Whatever happens there is only one guarantee and that is Swindon Town are entering an exciting period in their history.

After the misery of the last campaign I, for one, welcome the roller-coaster ride ahead.