Atalanta vs Siena preview - We have to beat Atalanta - Sannino

A revitalised Siena face Atalanta looking to take a big step towards retaining their Serie A status.

Ahead of the encounter in Bergamo, Siena have 36 points in the bank as the season enters its final eight weeks.

Last weekend's 1-0 triumph over Udinese marked Siena's fourth win in their last six games.

The result allowed Guiseppe Sannino's side to climb four places and eight points clear of the drop zone.

After a slow start to the year, Siena are beginning to find their touch at the right time, much to the relief of Sannino.

"We are heading in the right direction," Sannino said.

"We have found some continuity in results of late, and this in the end pays off.

"We are in good condition and collecting important results.

"I am happy for our fans, but a few more sacrifices are needed, as we are not mathematically safe yet."

With Siena due to face Inter Milan, AC Milan, Lazio and Napoli in their remaining games, Sannino knows the importance of this encounter.

"We have to beat Atalanta," Sannino said. "We must show the same determination that we displayed against Udinese.

"On Saturday we have an opportunity to take a big step towards survival."

Siena face a mighty task against an Atalanta side that has only fallen to Serie A leaders Milan and to unbeaten Juventus at the Atleti Azzurri d'Italia stadium this season.

The Bergamaschi are in 12th place, one point clear of Siena in the standings after last weekend's 2-0 defeat at Cagliari.

Atalanta coach Stefano Colantuono will be without defender Daniele Capelli, midfielder Matteo Brighi and striker Guido Marilungo, all out injured.

However, the hosts will be bolstered by the return of striker German Denis.

Denis, who is the team's top scorer with 15 league goals this season, has recovered from a muscular injury that kept him out of action for three weeks.