Bologna vs Catania preview - Pioli urges players to stand up and be counted

Manager Stefano Pioli has called on his players to show the "real Bologna" when they host Catania.

The Rossoblu endured a disappointing end to 2011 after suffering back-to-back defeats against Genoa and Roma, leaving them 17th in the standings, three points clear of the drop zone.

"I hope that the final performances of 2011 remain a bad memory," Pioli said.

"We must return to being the real Bologna.

"I am confident we can do well as I have seen great attention and commitment from everyone in recent weeks.

"We have a goal to achieve of 40 points and that there is only one thing to do - be in the fight until the final week."

Pioli, whose side has won just one of its last seven games, is expecting a tough afternoon against Catania.

"It will not be easy to get the three points," he said.

"But I know my players will do their best, and I really hope we will succeed.

"A victory would be an important sign and the best way to start 2012."

Catania travel to Bologna on Sunday with the future of striker Maxi Lopez still up in the air.

The Sicilian club have an offer from Fulham for the Argentina forward, who is also a target of several Serie A outfits, including AC Milan and Fiorentina.

Lopez is expected to start from the bench, with Catania coach Vincenzo Montella set to field Gonzalo Bergessio and Pablo Barrientos in attack against Bologna.

Catania have won just once on the road this season, a 1-0 triumph at Lecce on November 26.

They are eighth in the standings, with 22 points from 16 games.