Paolo Di Canio's toughest task in the transfer market this summer was always to fix our largely depleted strike force. Since the exit of Charlie Austin Swindon have been left with no prolific strikers. Thomas Dossevi, Vincent Pericard and Elliot Benyon have also since left the club.
Di Canio's first step to fix the problem area was to sign 23 year old Raffaele De Vita from Livingston. The Italian has initially settled in well into the Swindon Town set up through pre-season. However, it was reported on the day of his arrival De Vita will be largely used as back-up.
Former Brighton striker Leon Knight was brought in for a trial to add substance to our attack. His exit followed two days later, Di Canio citing poor fitness and attitude as the reason. Knight has a notorious reputation as being some what of a trouble maker so it was no surprise to see him leave.
Our manager once more showed his tough managerial approach with our most recent trialist Christian Cesaretti. The unattached forward failed to impress so was also shown the door after only two days. Cesaretti's exit was similar to that of Leon Knight's, with Di Canio once more bemoaning a player's attitude.
As much as we are desperate to sign some strikers I have to say I am impressed of the ruthless approach being shown. As a frustrated supporter, I can't help but feel had previous managers had this method, the club wouldn't be League Two. As a Town fan, I don't expect to watch Messi and Ronaldo but there can be no excuses for lack of effort.
The initial excitement on the arrival of Hugo Bargas has since proved to be a false dawn. The Argentine had an excellent scoring record in the higher leagues in Holland so would have been considered a coup. Bargas was clearly holding out for a better club which proved to be his downfall if he had any interest in joining Swindon.
More positive news hit the papers today, with Swindon looking set to beat Gillingham to the purchase of Adam Birchell. The Dover striker hit an impressive 45 goals in 49 games last season, a record not too disimilar record to that of Charlie Austin. Birchell failed last time in league football but should be keen to prove his worth in League Two.
Paolo Di Canio's approach is consistent and players know what is expected of them, on and off the pitch. The team will consist of players who want to play for Swindon and give it their all in the process. It also very much mirrors his playing career and if half his passion can rub off on the team we are in for one hell of a ride.
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