Sunderland manager Paolo Di Canio accepts £8,000 fine for actions during defeat to Arsenal

The Italian was infuriated by the referee Martin Atkinson

Sunderland manager Paolo Di Canio has been fined £8,000 by the Football Association having admitted a charge of misconduct.

Di Canio was involved in a lively exchange with referee Martin Atkinson late in the 3-1 defeat by Arsenal on Saturday and was eventually sent to the stands.

The Italian later said he had invited Atkinson to "complete a perfect job" by sending him off.

His frustrations centred around the decision not to allow a Jozy Altidore's 'goal' that would have tied the match at 2-2.

Instead of playing the advantage Atkinson pulled play back for a free-kick against Bacary Sagna, ignoring the fact that Altidore went on to score.

An FA statement read: "Sunderland manager Paolo Di Canio has been fined the standard penalty of £8,000 after he admitted an FA misconduct charge in relation to his behaviour during his side's game against Arsenal on Saturday 14 September 2013."

Di Canio, although worse off financially, at least avoided a ban from the dugout.

Sunderland, in a brief statement of their own, added: "He (Di Canio) is free to take his place on the touchline when Sunderland visit West Brom this weekend."

PA