Sunderland and Di Canio left looking over their shoulders

Sunderland 1 Southampton 1

For all the Italian’s self-publicity, it’s never advisable to leave yourselves open to the Houdini-like powers of Wigan Athletic in mid-May. Yet that is exactly what Sunderland have managed to do, after sharing the spoils with a Southampton side who ensured their return to the top flight won’t be confined to a single season.

The odds again increased slightly, though not decisively, against Di Canio’s side accompanying Reading and QPR into the Championship, but salvation is not yet sealed. It could be if Wigan fail to win at Arsenal tomorrow, but you only need ask Manchester City about the newly-crowned FA Cup-winners’ special powers when bums are at their most squeaky.