In the aftermath of defender Phil Bardsley being pictured covered in 50 pound notes on a night out, Di Canio criticised the attitude of some of his charges.

The Italian revealed he had dished out fines to seven players for indiscipline and admitted he would need to radically overhaul his squad in order to avoid another relegation battle next season.

"What happened to Bardsley is (in the) far past for me. In a week, I deliver into seven players' hands fines then this morning there's a player who couldn't be involved in my squad today," Di Canio said after watching his side beaten by Gareth Bale's late strike.

"I want to deliver a very clear message. There is no excuse to behave like he did. I can understand if we win the Champions League or the FA Cup. 
 
"I told them the day before, from now on I will be more strict because I will judge you more carefully because now we have to improve our professionalism.

"We're talking (about someone) 31 years of age, not a kid, with a family at home. I'm not here to be a priest that has to convince the people to behave differently. I have to talk about my club and my team."

Di Canio's side were guaranteed safety when Wigan were relegated in midweek and the former Swindon Town boss believes his side performed miracles to escape the drop, given their poor form when he took the job on.

"This is why I tell you we made a miracle. We made a miracle. Previously, eight games, three points. With Di Canio, seven games, eight points," he added.

"But we can't make a miracle forever, so we have to change a lot of things. We need to bring in six or seven players with a very high professional ethic."