Di Canio apologises for leaving

Paolo Di Canio has issued a public apology to Charlton after the most "painful" decision of his career saw him leave The Valley - despite agreeing a new one-year contract just last month.

Paolo Di Canio has issued a public apology to Charlton after the most "painful" decision of his career saw him leave The Valley - despite agreeing a new one-year contract just last month.

Following negotiations between the player and the club, the Addicks have agreed to rescind his contract. The Italian is now expected to sign a contract with Lazio and, as part of the deal, the Serie A side will play a friendly in South London next summer.

"This is possibly the most difficult career decision I have ever had to make and I can only apologise to Alan Curbishley and the supporters of Charlton, for whom I have the greatest affection," he said. "I have often said I wished I had joined Charlton earlier in my career.

"I hope [the supporters] will not be angry with me and will understand that, where your family is involved, you sometimes have to do things which are very painful."

Di Canio joined the Addicks in August 2003 from West Ham. He made 33 league and Cup appearances and scored five goals.