Udinese slipped from the Serie A summit as they couldn’t avoid defeat to Napoli, and are now hoping to remain close to the top with a win over Palermo.

Francesco Guidolin’s side didn’t spend a lot of time crying over the unlucky defeat to Arsenal in the Champions League play-offs, but they rather decided to prove their worth on domestic stage.

The Zebrette were in impressive form at the start to the Serie A campaign, and even managed to climb to the top of the standings after taking 15 points from first 7 games, although they didn’t have a lot of time to enjoy their latest success.

Without club icon Toto Di Natale, the Friulani could do nothing to avoid defeat at San Paolo, but with the talisman back to the side for the Palermo clash, Francesco Guidolin’s men will be hoping to return to winning ways. Udinese are 1.73 (8/11) with Ladbrokes to claim all three points.

Antonio Di Natale and Mauricio Isla return to the side after recovering from injury, but Paulo Barreto and Damiano Feronetti remain sidelined.

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

Despite boasting a squad filled with talent and quality, Palermo are starting to become really predictable, which is hardly a good feature.

The Rosanero remain a real force to be reckoned with at their Renzo Barbera, having won all four home games this season, but problems arise when they leave the comfort of their home.

Devis Mangia’s side did manage to bring one point from their away game against Lazio, but they lost to Atalanta, Milan and Roma on the travels, and they now have little to hope for before the trip to Udine.

Palermo have yet to score a goal on the travels and taking also into account that Udinese boast the best defensive record in Serie A, you should know that Paddy Power pays 2.40 (7/5) on Palermo not to score.

Fabrizio Miccoli should return to the starting line-up at the expense of Mauricio Pinilla, whereas Mauro Cetto should keep his place in the side after impressing on his first Serie A start.

Probable starting line-up (4-3-1-2): Tzorvas – Pisano, Silvestre, Cetto, Balzaretti – Migliaccio, Bacinovic, Barreto – Ilicic – Hernandez, Miccoli.