Paolo Di Canio Clattered and Booed at Steve Harper's Newcastle Testimonial

Over 50,000 Newcastle United fans turned out for Steve Harper’s testimonial, and the Toon Army made sure Sunderland boss Paolo Di Canio was made aware of their feelings.

A Newcastle legends side took on AC Milan Glorie at St James’ Park on Wednesday evening and Di Canio was in the Milan side.

As manager of Newcastle’s most bitter rivals, he was always likely to be singled out by the home fans. And the Magpies faithful did not disappoint as they gave both barrels to the Italian throughout the 90 minutes.

Di Canio did not appear fazed by the reception, as he waved to all corners of the ground as he made his way onto the pitch.

There were some greats of the game on show, with Alan Shearer, Faustino Asprilla, David Ginola and Peter Beardsley turning out for Newcastle, while Franco Baresi, Paolo Maldini, Mark van Bommel and Alessandro Costacurta joined Di Canio in the Milan teaam.

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"@BBCSporf: 50,000 Newcastle fans boo Paolo Di Canio last night & he absolutely loves it!...http://t.co/DYgdrqYyy8" @platt2ben

— Tunt (@tom_hunttt) September 12, 2013"

For all Di Canio was roundly booed, reported skysports.com, and clattered by Joey Barton mid-way through the second half, per the Guardian, he had the final word by scoring the winning penalty.

The game ended 0-0, resulting in the match going to penalties. The Italian side proved to be the sharper shooters from 12 yards as Costacurta and Di Canio scored, while only Alan Thompson found the target for Newcastle.

Harper, who according to the Evening Chronicle's Michael Brown, is donating the proceeds of the evening to a number of charities—including the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation—saw his penalty saved.

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Great moment as Ed and Tommy Speed, the sons of Gary Speed, replace Kevin Nolan and Peter Beardsley, both wearing number 11 #Harper20Years

— Newcastle United FC (@NUFCOfficial) September 11, 2013"

Towards the end of the 90 minutes, Gary Speed’s sons Ed and Tommy were brought on by Newcastle and their late father’s name rang out around St James’ Park.