Atalanta vs Fiorentina preview - Rossi optimistic about avoiding drop

Fiorentina have hit form at just the right time and go into the match at Atalanta knowing that victory would see them take a giant step towards Serie A football next season.

The Viola have enjoyed a successful month in April.

The Tuscan outfit followed its 2-1 triumph at AC Milan with goalless draws against Palermo and Inter Milan.

Wednesday's 2-1 triumph at Roma - Fiorentina's third win on the road this season - extended the Viola's unbeaten run to four games and lifted Delio Rossi's side three places and six points clear of the relegation zone.

"We have the upper hand to avoid the drop and it's down to us to defend our Serie A status," Rossi said. "We still need a few more points to remain in the division and we will try to get a win in Bergamo.

"I see my players very motivated and this is a good sign."

Rossi will have to make some changes to the side that beat Roma with midfielder Alessio Cerci and striker Carvalho Amauri unavailable through injury.

Goalkeeper Artur Boruc must serve a one-match ban and Norberto Murara Neto will take his place in goal.

Rivals Atalanta are also on track to defend their top flight status.

The Bergamaschi, who started the campaign with a six-point penalty for match-fixing, beat Chievo 1-0 on Wednesday.

The victory was their second in their last three games and lifted Atalanta to 11th place, two points clear of Fiorentina.

"We still need a few more points," Atalanta coach Stefano Colantuono said. "We face a difficult game against Fiorentina but we have to approach that match with the right mentality."

The hosts will be without defender Gugliermo Stendardo and midfielder Luca Cigarini, both suspended.