Struggling Lazio face top 3 hopefuls Inter Milan in Edoardo Reja’s first game in charge since returning to Stadio Olimpico, with an intense affair on the cards.

The Biancocelesti chiefs finally lost patience with coach Vladimir Petkovic following a very disappointing start to the season, and new boss now has the task to steady the ship ahead of the 2014/2015 campaign.

That will be no easy task given that the players are completely out of confidence following the run of three defeats in four matches, especially with Inter Milan on the other side.

However, having won five of nine home matches in the league this season, Lazio do have reason for optimism, but it remains to be seen if there is value in odds of 2.55 (31/20) offered on home win.

Edy Reja is set to deploy a 4-2-3-1 formation in the first match in 2014, with veteran Miroslav Klose set to lead the line.

Meanwhile, Stefan Radu returns to the side after recovering from a calf problem, but Etrit Berisha is doubtful with a shoulder injury.

Probable starting line-up (4-2-3-1): Marchetti – Konko, Dias, Biava, Radu – Ledesma, Onazi – Candreva, Hernanes, Lulic – Klose.

On the other hand, Inter enjoyed an excellent start under Walter Mazzarri, but the Nerazzurri haven’t quite managed to keep the rich vein of form.

A four-match winless run threatened to ruin their top 3 bid, but last-gasp victory over arch rivals AC Milan ensured the players enter the New Year in good spirits.

However, with the Nerazzurri still trailing third-placed Napoli by five points, they need to try and defeat Lazio as well.

And even if this is clearly not the right time to be facing the Biancocelesti, Inter Milan look a good bet at 3.00 (2/1) offered at William Hill.

Hugo Campagnaro misses out through suspension, whereas Saphir Taider, Cristian Chivu and McDonald Mariga are out injured.

Probable starting line-up (3-5-1-1): Handanovic – Rolando, Ranocchia, Juan Jesus – Jonathan, Zanetti, Cambiasso, Alvarez, Nagatomo – Guarin – Palacio.