Guidolin expecting tough test at Parma

Parma may have already been thumped by Juventus and AC Milan this season but league leaders Udinese will not be taking them lightly on Sunday.

Parma have been one of the most inconsistent teams this term, losing badly when they do lose but managing to win away to Napoli while largely looking good at home.

And Francesco Guidolin is expecting his table toppers to need to battle to stay above the rest.

"Everyone finds it difficult at Parma, I know that because I'm from there and returning is always an emotional experience for me," said Guidolin.

"Parma and Udine are similar in terms of fashion, quality and rhythm of life.

"I know five or six lads there who are the founndation of a team that has been built harmoniously.

"We have to avoid a repeat of the first half we had last season at the Tardini (stadium)."

Although Guidolin is keen for his team to hold onto top spot he doesn't expect them to remain in such a lofty position in the long term.

"It's nice to be up there but we'll find it tough to maintain a certain tempo over time.

"We know our position is provisional, we're a quarter of the way through the season but we'll try."