Cagliari vs Genoa preview - Gilardino poised for Genoa bow

Posted Sunday, January 08, 2012 by PA

Genoa coach Pasquale Marino could hand a debut to new signing Alberto Gilardino when they visit Cagliari.

Marino, who will be taking charge of Genoa for the first time, is considering springing a surprise by throwing the striker in to the action from the start.

Gilardino joined Genoa from Fiorentina this week and has signed a contract until June 2016.

"I like challenges," Gilardino said. "My career has been full of them.

"I've had three fantastic seasons in Florence and I want to thank Fiorentina and their fans.

"Now a new adventure begins for me.

"It would be fantastic to play already on Sunday. I'm enthusiastic and ready to do well with Genoa."

Marino, who replaced the sacked Alberto Malesani last month after Genoa's 6-1 loss at Napoli, will have all his players available with the exception of injured defender Kakha Kaladze.

Genoa start the year in 10th place, with six wins from 16 games.

Cagliari have strengthened their midfield with the arrival of Daniele Dessena on loan from Serie B side Sampdoria.

Dessena, who played at Cagliari in the 2009/10 campaign, is expected to feature against Genoa.

"I am delighted to be back," Dessena said. "It's as though I never left.

"Two years ago my desire was to remain in Sardinia and I'm very happy to be back here."

Cagliari, coached by Davide Ballardini, lost 2-0 to AC Milan last time out to drop to 15th in the standings.

The hosts are bolstered by the return of defender Davide Astori and striker Moestafa el Kabir from injury as they seek only their second win at the Sant' Elia stadium this season.