Udinese could name an unchanged team from the 1-1 draw at Genoa when they go up against Napoli, as they don’t have any new injury concerns, although Armero and Hallfredsson are still out after it was hoped they’d be able to return. Jankto is back to boost their midfield options though, and both he and Ryder Matos appear to be the players pushing for a recall from the start. Since the appointment of Delneri, things have picked up and Udinese go into this game on a four match unbeaten run. Keeping the streak going will be the aim, with a draw representing a good result, although they’ll try to cause an upset and take all three points. They’re capable of causing one or two problems for the Napoli defence and can take heart from winning this fixture last season.
Napoli already had their attacking options limited by the long term injury to Milik, but they’ll also be without Gabbiadini against Udinese, so Mertens will continue as a false nine. Their concerns will increase if Jose Callejon is unable to play, although he’s only a slight doubt, while there is some good news for Sarri, with Albiol returning to bolster the defence and Hamsik overcoming the flu. Having already lost ground on the other teams at the top due to their stuttering form, Napoli can’t afford to drop more points here. They’ll be playing to win and will aim to control and attack Udinese. They possess more quality than the hosts, but their away form dating back to the end of last season isn’t befitting of their talent and this is by no means an easy contest.
Verdict
Udinese have so far done well under Delneri, only losing one of their five games since he took charge, a 2-1 defeat away to league leaders Juventus. They’re unbeaten in their last four and will go into this game against Napoli with a positive mindset. Back the home team to get at least a point!
Prediction: Udinese +0.50 (same as Draw No Bet)
Odds: 2.25 Pinnacle
