Preview: Lazio vs. AC Milan

Lazio will be aiming to return to winning ways in Serie A this weekend in order to get their push for a spot in the Champions League back on track.

The Biancocelesti have taken one point from their last two fixtures against Roma and Napoli, two sides they are directly competing against for a top-three spot, and although that is by no means a terrible return they will need to follow that up with victory over AC Milan on Saturday evening.

Prior to their 1-0 loss at the hands of Napoli last time out, Lazio had gone six games without defeat in the Italian top flight, showcasing that they have more than enough ability to break into Europe's showpiece competition next season.

If Stefano Pioli's charges are to keep up with the chasing pack then they will have to see off a Milan side lacking in confidence at the moment following a four-game winless run.

That poor stretch of results led to manager Filippo Inzaghi claiming that his side were "feeling the tension" on the back of a run which started with a surprise loss at home to Sassuolo immediately after the winter break.

The fallen giants have ambitions of their own this season, of course, and sitting just five points behind Lazio in the league table they go into this weekend's game at the Stadio Olimpico knowing that they can still make up ground on the top five.

Recent signing Alessio Cerci is likely to start his second game in succession for the Rossoneri for this one, alongside Jeremy Menez and Stephan El Shaarawy.

In terms of the hosts, Miroslav Klose could return having been rested last time out, while new recruits Wesley Hoedt and Mauricio dos Santos Nascimento may also be part of the squad.

Lazio:

Form in Serie A: WWDWDL Form in all competitions: WDWDWL

Possible starting lineup: Berisha, Basta, Cana, Radu, Cavanda, Biglia, Ledesma, Parolo, Candreva, Klose, Keita Balde

AC Milan:

Form in Serie A: LWDLDL Form in all competitions: DWLDWL

Possible starting lineup: Lopez, Mexes, Rami, Abate, Bonera, Montolivo, Bonaventura, De Jong, Menez, Cerci, El Shaarawy

Sports Mole says: 3-1