Former Swindon boss Paolo Di Canio believes he is ready to manage in the Premier League amid rumours linking him with the vacant Reading job.
Di Canio has been tipped to succeed Brian McDermott, who was sacked by the Royals on Monday, in what would be his first management job in the English top-flight.
The Italian enjoyed great success at Swindon, guiding them to promotion to League One on his debut season at the club.
He then put the Robins on course for back-to-back promotions this term but stepped down as manager last month after a fall-out with the club's board.
Di Canio, who has also been linked with a West Ham move as a replacement for Sam Allardyce, feels he has proved himself capable of managing at the next level.
He said: "Now that I've proved that I have skills as a manager, I can be manager at a different level.
"My story as a manager is not a very long story (but) I've proved I'm a top manager in League Two and League One.
"Obviously someone has some doubt but it's their opinion. Someone is sceptical but that is normal, especially with me."
He added: "I believe I am at a stage now where I am a Premier League or Championship manager.
"I have already proven my ability in League Two and League One, where there are many arrogant and average players, and I was able to turn their mentality and help them become better footballers.
"You can imagine if I had the chance to do the same at the top level."
