Atalanta vs Chievo preview - Colantuono focussed on Chievo
Posted Tuesday, April 24, 2012 by PA
Atalanta coach Stefano Colantuono has reminded his players of the importance of the Serie A game against Chievo.
The Bergamaschi lost 2-0 at Catania on Saturday to drop to 14th place, five points clear of the relegation zone with five games remaining.
Had Atalanta not been docked six points earlier this season due to their involvement in a match-fixing scandal, the Bergamaschi would have already assured themselves of top-flight football next season.
As it is, Colantuono's men still have some work to do, and with games against Lazio, AC Milan and Juventus awaiting them in their final three weeks of the campaign, Colantuono knows his side must take maximum points in their next two games.
"We have to put Saturday's result behind us and focus on the game against Chievo," Colantuono said.
"We have to recover quickly and be ready to give our all against Chievo and Fiorentina (on Sunday).
"We need to go out for the win. Three points would allow us to take a big step towards defending our Serie A status."
The home side will be bolstered by the return of striker German Denis.
Denis, who is Atalanta's top scorer this season with 15 league goals, returns from suspension.
Chievo are three points clear of the Bergamaschi.
The men from Verona held Udinese to a goalless result in the last round to climb to ninth place.
"We are not being rewarded for our efforts," Chievo coach Domenico Di Carlo said.
"But there are still five games left to play and we will try to surpass the 50-point mark before the end of the season."
Chievo have taken 43 points in 33 games.
The visitors welcome back striker Sergio Pellissier from suspended.
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