Udinese vs Chievo preview - Pozzo revels in Udinese form

Posted Sunday, December 11, 2011 by PA

High-flying Udinese will be looking to maintain their current impressive form at home when they take on Chievo on Sunday.

Francesco Guidolin's side go into the encounter at the Friuli stadium inspired by their perfect record at home, which has seen them creep up to third in Serie A.

Last weekend's 1-0 triumph at Inter Milan was a big morale boost for a team that has proved one of the most solid in the league.

Udinese have 27 points after 13 games and, with three games remaining before the Christmas break, they hold the last Champions League qualifying spot.

"We are doing exceptional things this season," said Udinese owner Giampaolo Pozzo.

"This is our best campaign in terms of continuity in our results.

"But we will see how we end the year before setting our aims."

Guidolin, who led Udinese to a fourth-placed finish last season, could not be happier with his team's performances so far.

"I am very proud to be coaching this team," he said. "I am proud of my players.

"We must do everything we can to extend this positive spell knowing that we have challenging games ahead."

With games at Lazio and at home to Serie A leaders Juventus before the end of the year, Guidolin knows the importance of Sunday's match.

"Against Chievo we will face another battle and we need to be ready," he said.

Rivals Chievo travel to Udine on the back of a goalless draw against Atalanta.

The men from Verona dominated the encounter but failed to find the back of the net.

"The result is disappointing but we must look forward to our next game," Chievo coach Domenico Di Carlo said.

"Udinese are a great side and we will need to be at our best to beat them."