Serie A returns from a winter break tomorrow evening with one of Italy's biggest club encounters - a Derby d'Italia between Juventus and Inter Milan.
While it is no surprise to see champions Juventus leading the way at the top of the standings, Inter's struggles have been worrying.
Indeed, the Nerazzurri have won just twice since October and only once following the appointment of Roberto Mancini in November, which sees them down in 11th place.
However, there is reason for optimism ahead of their trip to the Juventus Stadium because they are still just six points adrift of the Champions League places.
In terms of team selection, the match is likely to come too soon for Lukas Podolski, who recently joined from Arsenal. It is anticipated that the paperwork over the German international's move will not be completed in time for him to feature.
Japanese full-back Yuto Nagatomo is on international duty and also unavailable, which is likely to see Danilo D'Ambrosio play at right-back, while Mateo Kovacic is expected to keep the number 10 role that he has flourished in during recent outings.
As for Juventus, Andrea Barzagli, Kwadwo Asamoah and Romulo are all injured, with the sidelining of Asamoah likely to mean that Patrice Evra will continue in the left-back position.
Inter last won at the Juventus Stadium in November 2012, which made them the first away side to ever win at Juve's new home ground.
Juventus:
Form in Serie A: WWWDDW
Form in all competitions: WDDDWD
Possible starting lineup: Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Chiellini, Evra; Pirlo, Pogba, Marchisio, Vidal; Tevez, Llorente
Inter Milan:
Form in Serie A: DDLLWD
Form in all competitions: LLDWDL
Possible starting lineup: Handanovic; D'Ambrosio, Ranocchia, Juan Jesus, Dodo; Guarin, Medel, Kuzmanovic; Kovacic; Icardi, Palacio
Sports Mole says: 2-0
Liam Apicella
