Paolo Di Canio has revealed that he is on the verge of taking up his first coaching role and has hinted that he is on his way back to England.
Di Canio spent seven years in the Premier League, four at West Ham and three with Charlton Athletic, before returning to Italy to see out the final four years of his career.
The 42-year-old, who has completed his coaching licence, is looking forward to his first appointment and he has hinted that a job outside the Premier League could be on the cards.
"I believe my future will be in England. In the next few days something will happen, perhaps in an inferior division," Di Canio told Sport Mediaset.
"English football is loyal, full of pride and I believe I'm close to returning to England.
"It is the country that I most love from a football standpoint."
West Ham sacked Avram Grant just an hour after the Hammers' return to the Championship was confirmed with defeat to Wigan.
Di Canio is one of those linked with the vacant position and the former striker has said he would "give everything" if he ended up at Upton Park.
"I am very saddened by West Ham's relegation. This team has always been in my heart," he added.
"They have unique supporters. I would give everything for West Ham.
"I even have a Hammers tattoo."