Lisbie: My Papa Di Canio

Last updated : 15 October 2003 By Edward Slater
Everyone has something to say about the recent change in form of Kevin Lisbie but there is non more plaudible than the Papa Di Canio theory.

Lisbie has tributed his three goals to Charlton new-boy Paolo Di Canio, and fans believe Paolo was the reason for his recent boost of form. This was clear when Lisbie scored his third goal and pointed at Di Canio, who was jumping up and down for Lisbie on the touchline.

Lisbie who has the rare capacity to run at defenders and scare them, is one of the most talented players at The Valley but in the past has had a tendancy to freeze in front of goal. Di Canio looks to have taken Lisbie under his wing and built the players confidence in the box. This certainly seemed so with possibly the goal of the month if not goal of the season against Liverpool on Sunday.

It is believed that when Di Canio came to the club a fan wrote a letter requesting Di Canios' influence and help, he is thought to have written about how Lisbie was one of Charltons best prospects but his talent was being wasted by his finishing. It certainly seems asif Paolo has taken notice of this letter and taken action, after a brilliant hat-rick from Lisbie against Liverpool.


Di Canio enjoys a moment with Lisbie