Fallen giants Inter are hoping to return to the title race with a win over high-flying Udinese, but scoring goals against the best defence in Serie A could prove to be a tough task.

The Neroazzurri are still trying to recover from the dismal start to the season under Gian Piero Gasperini, although new boss Claudio Ranieri is slowly getting to grips with his new job.

After losing to Juventus at home, Inter have shown some improvement of late, having beaten Cagliari and Siena on domestic stage, while ensuring the first place in their Champions League group.

In spite of the recent uptrend in fortunes, the Neroazzurri still sit ten points behind their next opponents, albeit with a game in hand, so no wonder they are 3.40 (12/5) with bet365 to achieve a top 3 finish.

Claudio Ranieri is still unable to call on the services of Maicon, Forlan, Viviano, Muntari, Sneijder and Lucio, but this is where Inter’s big strength in depth can be of big help.

Probable starting line-up (4-3-2-1): Julio Cesar – Nagatomo, Ranocchia, Samuel, Zanetti – Motta, Cambiasso, Stankovic – Zarate, Alvarez – Pazzini.

Udinese have done brilliantly so far this season, with 3rd place in Serie A and qualification to the next stage of Europa League something that they can be proud of.

Coach Francesco Guidolin has done really well to rebuild the squad after some important departures in the summer and it was the change in the playing style that has brought success this term.

Guidolin managed to transform the Zebrette from one of the best attacking sides in Serie A to the best defensive team in Italy’s top flight, with six conceded goals in twelve league games truly an impressive record.

Udinese currently sit in third place, just two points behind leaders Juventus and they clearly enter the match in great spirits.

However, while boasting a perfect home record, the Friulani have had big problems on the travels, having won just one of six away games, which is probably why they are no less than 4.10 (41/10) with Betfair to win at Meazza.

Gabriel Torje is expected to return to the starting line-up, whereas Damiano Feronetti should replace injured Maurizio Domizzi.

Probable starting line-up (3-5-1-1): Handanovic – Benatia, Danilo, Feronetti – Basta, Isla, Pinzi, Asamoah, Armero – Torje – Di Natale.