WEST HAM legend Paolo Di Canio insists he felt ‘honoured’ to feature in academy director Tony Carr’s testimonial match on Wednesday.

The Italian, who spent more than four years at Upton Park, played for both the Academy All Stars and West Ham during the testimonial, almost getting on the scoresheet for the latter, only for young striker Cristian Montano to nick the ball and slam it home.

However, Di Canio was merely content to be on the pitch.

“He’s (Carr) a great man,” said Di Canio, 41. “He gave his life for this club so, for me, it was a great honour to come back and I have to thank him for the chance he gave me to feel, to listen to my heart rushing in my chest because it’s always a special occasion.

“I came back here many times for watching the game, but to go through the tunnel and on to the pitch and see the people, a lot of memories came out and made me a very happy person inside.

“It left me thinking I was really, really lucky to have the chance to play for this fantastic club and for these fantastic supporters.”