Preview: Fiorentina vs. Roma

On Thursday, Vincenzo Montella is going to have to put his emotions to one side as his Fiorentina team play host to fellow Serie A outfit Roma in the first leg of their last-16 Europa League tie.

The 40-year-old is highly regarded among supporters of the capital-based outfit, having served the club with such distinction during his 10-year stint at the Stadio Olimpico.

That will all have to be forgotten, though, just as it was last month when La Viola knocked Roma out of the Coppa Italia thanks to a brace from Mario Gomez.

In terms of team selection, Montella will be without the services of injured strike duo Khouma Babacar and Giuseppe Rossi.

As for Roma, Brazilian defender Leandro Castan will play no part because of a head injury, while a thigh complaint is likely to sideline Juan Iturbe.

Rudi Garcia's men head into this contest struggling for winning form, having drawn five of their last six matches in all competitions.

Against domestic rivals in European clashes, Fiorentina have won none of their four outings, while Roma have lost one and won one.

Fiorentina:

Form in Europa League: WDWLDW Form in all competitions: DDWWWL

Possible starting lineup: Neto; Richards, Basanta, Savic, Alonso; Fernandez, Pizarro, Badelj; Salah, Joaquin; Gomez

Roma:

Form in Europa League: LLLDDW Form in all competitions: DDDWDD

Possible starting lineup: De Sanctis; Cole, Manolas, Yanga-Mbiwa, Torosidis; De Rossi, Keita; Pjanic, Gervinho, Ljajic; Totti

Sports Mole says: 1-1