Serie A Preview | Roma vs. Empoli: Post-derby tension
Roma have Lorenzo Pellegrini back from suspension, but it remains to be seen how they’ll react to the irritation of losing the derby.
Jose Mourinho continued to criticise and complain about the defeat to Lazio, even after Thursday’s Conference League 3-0 victory away to Zorya Luhask. The Giallorossi get Pellegrini and Matias Vina back into the starting XI, with Tammy Abraham the undoubted first choice upfront.
Empoli are an unpredictable side, able to beat Juventus, Bologna and Cagliari, but also lose to Venezia and Sampdoria. Federico Di Francesco could face his former club, with Andrea Pinamonti the favourite over Patrick Cutrone.
Form Guide: Roma (L W L W W) Empoli (W W L L W)
Stat fact: Jose Mourinho is one result away from setting a new record of 42 consecutive Serie A home games unbeaten during the three points for a win era. He is currently level with Max Allegri on 41.
Probable line-ups
Roma (4-2-3-1): Rui Patricio; Karsdorp, Mancini, Ibanez, Vina; Cristante, Veretout; Zaniolo, Pellegrini, Mkhitaryan; Abraham
Suspended: None
Injured: Spinazzola
On a yellow card: None
Empoli (4-3-1-2): Vicario; Stojanovic, Romagnoli, Viti, Marchizza; Haas, Ricci, Bandinelli; Bajrami; Di Francesco, Pinamonti
Suspended: None
Injured: Damiani
On a yellow card: None