Preview: Lazio vs. Inter Milan

Inter Milan brought an end to what had been an inconsistent 2013 with a slender 1-0 victory over rivals AC Milan.

That result meant that the Blue and Blacks will begin 2014 with a trip to Lazio on Monday in fifth place, five points adrift of the final Champions League berth.

They will have to make do without the services of defender Christian Chivu and midfielder Saphir Taider because of injuries, while the encounter in Rome may also come too soon for Diego Milito, despite his return to training following a stint on the sidelines.

What's more, Fredy Guarin is expected to start for Inter despite reports linking him with a transfer to Chelsea.

As for the home side, Stefano Mauri is still absent because of his suspension for match-fixing, while a knee injury will keep Emiliano Alfaro out of action.

The hosts have a positive recent record against Inter, winning four of the last six matches between the two clubs.

Recent form

Lazio: DDLLWL

Inter: WDDDLW

Possible starting lineups

Lazio: Marchetti; Konko, Cana, Dias, Lulic; Ederson, Ledesma, Biglia, Candreva, Onazi; Klose

Inter: Handanovic; Juan, Rolando, Campagnaro; Nagatomo, Jonathan, Zanetti, Cambiasso, Guarin; Icardi, Palacio

Sports Mole says: 1-1