Atalanta vs Lecce preview - Colantuono looking for improvement

Atalanta coach Stefano Colantuono has criticised his side's recent performances and has demanded a drastic improvement in Sunday's clash against Lecce.

The Bergamaschi, who lost 2-1 at Palermo last Sunday, have conceded eight times and scored just twice in their last four league games.

"We have to change our approach and be concentrated from start to finish," Colantuono said.

"Against Palermo we made mistakes that cost us three points.

"We must limit our mistakes because if not, we will continue to pay for them.

"I expect my team to respond on Sunday."

Atalanta have lost four of their last five matches and lie 15th in the standings, six points clear of Lecce.

The Bergamo outfit will be bolstered by the return of the team's top scorer German Denis from suspension.

However, they will be without goalkeeper Andrea Consigli and midfielder Luca Cigarini, with both serving a one-match ban.

Giorgio Frezzolini will replace Consigli in Atalanta's goal.

Lecce go into the encounter at the Atleti Azzurri d'Italia stadium on the back of a goalless draw against Bologna.

The Salentini played a man down after defender Moris Carrozzieri was sent off with 14 minutes remaining but managed to hold on for a valuable point.

"It wasn't easy to play with 10 men in the final minutes," Cosmi said.

"But my players showed a lot of focus and we deserved the point.

"If my players hand a similar performance at Atalanta, I'm sure we will be rewarded with a win."

Lecce have lost just once in five games and are in 18th place, three points behind safety.

Cosmi will have all of his players available with the exception of suspended Carrozieri and injured goalkeeper Massimiliano Benassi.