It’s been a while since both Sampdoria and Genoa last fund themselves in the Serie A top 8 and the fact the arch rivals are still in the battle for European positions will add an extra value to the latest edition of Derby della Lanterna.

This has been one of the most successful seasons for the Blucerchiati in recent years, although Sinisa Mihajlovic’s charges have experienced a serious dip in form of late.

Not so long ago, Sampdoria were very close to Champions League places, but they are now in danger of missing out on European qualification altogether.

While suffering a 2-0 loss to Inter Milan in Coppa Italia, the Blucerchiati have failed to win any of their last four league fixtures.

The interesting thing is they scored in each of those games, but only picked up two points having conceded nine goals in the process.

Sampdoria are now desperate to return to winning ways against Genoa, and they can be backed at 2.40 (7/5) to succeed in their quest.

Sergio Romero and Luca Rizzo have resumed full training, but Emiliano Viviano should continue between the sticks.

Ezequiel Munoz, Fabrizio Cacciatore and Alessandro De Vittis are out injured, while Samuel Eto’o should keep his place in the side.

Probable starting line-up (4-3-1-2): Viviano – De Silvestri, Silvestre, Romagnoli, Mesbah – Obiang, Palombo, Acquah – Soriano – Okaka, Eto’o.

Just like their bitter rivals, Genoa have done much better than anyone could predict, and they seem determined to finish the season in style.

The Rossoblu experienced some problems at the turn of the year, taking just three points from seven league matches, but they have since returned to the right track.

Back to back wins over Lazio and Hellas Verona served as a major confidence boost and also improved team’s Europa League hopes.

As a result, Genoa go into Derby della Lanterna in better mood than their bitter rivals and they are 3.40 (12/5) to emerge victorious.

Facundo Roncaglia and Lorenzo Ariaudo should be fit to play despite missing training on Thursday, but Marco Borriello continues to struggle for fitness.

Giovanni Marchese and Tino Costa remain sidelined, although the Argentine is nearing a return into action and should be available for the clash against Parma, scheduled for 1st March.

Probable starting line-up (4-3-3): Perin – Roncaglia, De Maio, Burdisso, Edenilson – Bertolacci, Rincon, Kucka – Falque, Niang, Perotti.