AC Milan vs Napoli preview - Mazzarri slams officials

Napoli coach Walter Mazzarri goes into the match at AC Milan on Sunday lamenting the treatment of his team by referees in midweek.

In Wednesday's clash against Cesena, the Naples outfit were denied three points due to a dubious offside that was called by referee Luca Banti on striker Goran Pandev deep in stoppage time and Napoli had to settle for a goalless draw.

"The referee had a terrible game and made many mistakes against us," Mazzarri said.

"He had a huge effect on the match, preventing us from getting the deserved win.

"Pandev's goal is absolutely and totally clear. I am sick and tired of this, as we lost another two points due to the official and his behaviour."

The midweek result extended Napoli's winless run in Serie A to four games.

Mazzarri's side have drawn three of their last four games, losing the other against Genoa at the weekend.

The latest setback means Napoli go into Sunday's clash at the Giuseppe Meazza stadium in seventh place trailing 11 points behind Udinese, who are third and hold the last Champions League qualifying spot.

Napoli, who have won just two of their last eight games, will be hoping to avoid any further ill-treatment as they attempt to climb up in the standings.

AC Milan are also looking to get back on track after losing for the fourth time this season in Wednesday's 2-0 defeat at Lazio.

The result left Milan in second place, one point behind Serie A leaders Juventus, who have a game in hand.

"The campaign is still long and there will be time to recover," AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri said.

"I believe the defeat can do us good and help us to grow.

"Lately, despite winning, we haven't had the same grit that we need to win the Scudetto."

Mazzarri will have all of his players available with defender Paolo Cannavaro having recovered from a minor ankle injury.