After a three-match winning run saw Parma join the chase for European places for the first time after quite a while, I Ducali will be aiming to further close the gap behind their rivals by defeating out-of-sorts Udinese. The Zebrette hope to build on the Coppa Italia triumph over Milan and finally leave the danger zone.

Donadoni spoilt for choices up front

Most football fans probably remember the time when Parma were challenging for both domestic and European trophies, and if the Ennio Tardini outfit continue the current uptrend, it won’t be long before they return to old glory days. It is clear the team have progressed a great deal under Roberto Donadoni, with some shrewd signings turning I Ducali into genuine top 6 contenders. The current Parma squad is packed with players who were once considered some of Italy’s brightest talents and all of them have managed to kick-start their careers at Ennio Tardini. It is, therefore, not surprising to see the team that have the likes of Cassano, Amauri, Palladini, Gargano, Biabiany and Parolo in their ranks climb to eighth in the league standings, and I can only see Roberto Donadoni’s side going from strength to strength in the future. While showing a lot of promise in the opening exchanges as well, Parma have largely impressed of late, defeating Torino, Livorno and Chievo in their last three league fixtures, with unlucky Coppa Italia defeat to Lazio the only minor setback. As a result, chances are they will manage to continue the trend against struggling Udinese.

Experienced defender Alessandro Lucarelli is suspended, whereas Nicola Pavarini and Joel Obi miss out through injury.

Can Udinese arrest the barren run?

This is without a doubt one of the most disappointing seasons for Udinese in recent years, with the Zebrette struggling in all the competitions entered. While Europa League exit at the hands of Slovan Liberec was not seen as a major blow, team’s dismal showing in Serie A have been a major cause for concern, with Friulani now just three points above the relegation zone. The only competition where Francesco Guidolin’s side have done well is Coppa Italia, but narrow wins over Inter and Milan can be attributed to the fact that Udinese’s back-up players only had bigger motivation than their counterparts. The players are completely out of confidence following the run of three successive defeats, with poor form of key striker Antonio Di Natale another serious problem. The veteran striker has only scored one goal in last seven appearances, and we all know that Udinese heavily rely on his goals, especially now that Luis Muriel is not fully fit. All things considered, this is not the right time to be facing red-hot Parma and I really cannot see the Zebrette getting something from Ennio Tardini.

Francesco Benussi remains sidelined, whereas Maurizio Domizzi and Bruno Fernandes are doubtful through muscle and thigh problems respectively.

Verdict

While Parma are on top of their game at the moment, Udinese find themselves in all sorts of problems, so no doubts the hosts will have the psychological advantage over the opposition. Taking also into account that I Ducali boast more quality and experience among the ranks, home win appears on he cards.

Top pick: Home win   2.05 (21/20) @ BetVictor

Alternative pick 1: Under 2.5 goals   1.78 (39/50) @ Betfair

Alternative pick 2: Parma to win to nil   3.50 (5/2) @ Paddy Power