PAOLO Di Canio is anticipating an atmosphere more akin to “a better level than League One” when Portsmouth visit Swindon Town tomorrow.

Having not played for 11 days since demolishing league leaders Tranmere 5-0, everyone associated with the Robins will be keen to see League One football return to the County Ground - and Di Canio is no exception.

The Italian expects a big crowd in SN1, particularly after lowly Pompey attracted more than 13,000 fans for their Boxing Day clash with Crawley.

And he has predicted that Robins supporters will be going home happy.

“I can’t wait because there is a frustration in me. I want to see them play because they made me very happy in the last few games and I’m sure they can keep going,” he said.

“We have to handle this frustration and turn it in a positive way and we know January 1 is a big occasion. The fans will come again with a lot of expectation, like us, and it will be fantastic.

“It’s not a real derby but they will bring a lot of fans and that will make an even better atmosphere than a typical game – a much better level than League One in my opinion.

“It will be a great occasion for everybody to see again our team in action and for our fans maybe to have another very good day.”

Jay McEveley continues his rehabilitation from knee surgery and will miss out for Swindon, as will striker Miles Storey.

However, midfielder Simon Ferry has shrugged off a minor knock and will be available for selection.

“Everybody is okay apart from the people that we know – Jay and Simon – but Simon will start with the team and he is available,” said Di Canio.