Get out and cheer on Paolo’s boys (From This Is Wiltshire)

SWINDON Town Supporters Club is urging everyone to help swell the ranks of Paolo Di Canio’s red and white army this weekend.

Hundreds of fans have backed the charismatic Italian to stay and continue the charge towards the Championship, English football’s second tier.

It comes after the manager announced he is considering quitting the County Ground over boardroom issues, including having his best player Matt Ritchie sold from under his nose, even though the Robins are just two points from the summit of League One Di Canio has said nothing on his position in recent days and is believed to be waiting for the sale of the club to be completed before making any major decisions. The takeover is likely to be sealed by the end of the week, with a five-strong consortium hoping to receive Football League approval.

Yesterday and today the Adver has published messages of support for Di Canio from fans.

Now the supporters’ club has appealed to the more occasional fans to turn out in force and take advantage of the £15 ticket offer for the game against Hartlepool tomorrow.

Nigel Bennett, of the Supporters’ Club, said: “In relation to the ongoing situation it is quite natural for fans wanting to know immediately the full picture of what is happening at the County Ground.

“However, whilst various negotiations and adequacy checks take place it does require a degree of patience particularly when, non-disclosure agreements are in place.

“One thing I am certain of is that the football club will, in a timely manner, bring news of the various negotiations once those circumstances permit and negotiations are concluded.

“The best approach fans can take at this time of concern is to get out and support the club and those that have travelled to the last three consecutive away games have shown fantastic spirit and the desire that they all have to see Swindon Town prosper.

“Indeed it was only a few weeks ago that many fans turned up at the County Ground and showed their particular commitment to the cause by standing alongside Paolo as together they cleared the snow from the County Ground pitch.

“This weekend's fixture against Hartlepool is massive in terms of the top of the table and with adult tickets on offer at just £15 it is an ideal time for everyone to get along and support the team in their quest for another three points to follow on from the victory at Colchester.

“The Supporters Club has raised around £200,000 to support football activities and improve facilities for fans since its formation and this weekend will be playing an additional part as the match sponsor.

“We hope to see as many fans as possible attending the match as this will give a timely extra boost to everyone at the football club, as well as hopefully witnessing that next step towards promotion.”