Following a disappointing opening day draw, Switzerland visit Rome to meet Europe's most in-form side Italy, with few changes expected to the starting XI.

To keep a fearsome Italian team at bay on Wednesday, the Swiss will rely on their gritty midfield unit - including captain Granit Xhaka and Atalanta's Remo Freuler - plus a back three of Bundesliga pair Manuel Akanji and Nico Elvedi alongside Newcastle United defender Fabian Schar.

Upon his return to Stadio Olimpico, former Lazio coach Vladimir Petkovic could name a lineup unaltered from the opening game with Wales.

Most likely to break into the side is Denis Zakaria, who featured as a substitute last time out in Baku, with either Freuler making way or one of Switzerland's two strikers dropping out to cater for an extra body in midfield - an area where Italy excel.

Back-up goalkeeper Jonas Omlin, meanwhile, has been removed from La Nati's 26-man squad, after suffering an ankle injury while warming up on Saturday, so uncapped Gregor Kobel will replace him on the bench.

Only an unexpected crisis between the sticks would see Kobel feature, however, as his role will be as cover for established first-choice Yann Sommer and his able deputy, PSV's Yvon Mvogo.

At the other end, striker Mario Gavranovic was a lively second-half presence versus Wales - and previously netted a hat-trick in the 7-0 win over Liechtenstein in Switzerland's final warm-up game - so could possibly usurp Haris Seferovic in the front two. Pacy and energetic, Breel Embolo is set to keep his place; providing a direct threat to Italy's formidable but ageing back line.

Switzerland possible starting lineup: Sommer; Elvedi, Akanji, Schar; Mbabu, Xhaka, Freuler, Rodriguez; Shaqiri; Embolo, Seferovic

> Click here to see how Italy could line up for Wednesday's Group A game

Written by
Jonathan O'Shea