Preview: Parma vs. AC Milan

AC Milan will look to build upon their impressive 1-1 draw with Barcelona in the Champions League when they take on Parma on Sunday.

Milan have made a relatively poor start to the Serie A season and already find themselves 13 points off league leaders Roma after just eight games.

However, their form has improved in recent weeks, with a 3-2 loss to Juventus earlier this month being their only defeat in their last six games.

Massimiliano Allegri is still without Philippe Mexes through suspension and Giampaolo Pazzini and Stephan El Shaarawy through injury, while Daniele Bonera, Mattia de Sciglio and Christian Abbiati all face late fitness tests.

Milan will be boosted by the news that Nigel de Jong is back available for selection after serving his suspension, while Mario Balotelli is expected to have fully recovered from injury in time for the match.

Parma have been equally unpredictable so far this season, losing 3-2 to surprise package Hellas Verona last week to end a four-match unbeaten streak.

Roberto Donadoni will be without injured duo Daniele Galloppa and Gabriel Paletta for the match, while Stefano Okaka is also a doubt.

Recent form

Parma: LDWDWL

AC Milan: DWDLWD

Possible starting lineups

Parma: Mirante; Lucarelli, Belo, Cassani; Gobbi, Parolo, Marchionni, Gargano, Biabiany; Amauri, Cassano

AC Milan: Gabriel; Constant, Zapata, Silvestre, Abate; Muntari, De Jong, Montolivo; Kaka; Balotelli, Matri

Sports Mole says: 2-2