Analysis:

Ciro Ferrara could be out of a job if Juventus fails to win today against Chievo after a series of poor results which also saw them losing 3-0 to A.C Milan. That cost them any hope of winning the Scudetto and Napoli even climbed above them to third spot.

Just when it seemed like Guus Hiddink would take over, they surprised everyone by beating Napoli 3-0 in the Coppa Italia in midweek. Alessandro Del Piero scored two goals in a rare start and Diego also managed to put his name on the scoresheet.

Both players are once again expected to start this match as there are no other alternatives available. In fact, it’s likely that they’ll be pushed into a 4-4-2 formation, as Amauri is suspended, joining the injured David Trezeguet, Vincenzo Iaquinta, Sebastian Giovinco, Christian Poulsen, Mauro Camoranesi and Martin Caceres already out of the side.

To make things worse for Juventus, Momo Sissoko is away on Africa Cup of Nations duty, leaving very few options for Ferrara to play with. But one piece of good news is that Gianluigi Buffon should make his first appearance of 2010 after recovering from knee surgery.

Chievo had a poor midweek as they were leading 2-1 away to Fiorentina before conceding twice in two minutes to go out 3-2. That proved their fourth consecutive defeat in all competition as they head into this match.

Coach Mimmo Di Carlo will be able to field fresh players as he made changes to his starting lineup. Sergio Pellissier returns for this match after missing the midweek game due to a knock with Inter defender Chivu. He had head trauma, but came off better than Chivu, who required surgery for a fractured skull.

Elvis Abbruscato should partner Pellissier with support from Giampiero Pinzi. Fabio Moro and Francesco Scardina are out of action, but other than that Di Carlo has a full squad to choose from.

Take note that Juventus has a good record at the Bentegodi, winning six of their total seven visits and drawing one in 2005-06. Last season Del Piero scored in a 2-0 victory here.

Take Juventus to win this match here.

Cheers and good luck,
Cruiser

The Statistics :

The Pick :

Juventus to win 1-0

FIXED ODDS BETTING :

Take Juventus to win here.

HANDICAP BETTING :

Take Juventus and give the 1/4 ball here.