Genoa vs Cagliari preview - Canini prepared for mixed emotions

Genoa defender Michele Canini will have mixed emotions when he faces his former Cagliari team-mates in the opening Serie A clash of the season at the Stadio Comunale.

Defender Canini ended his seven-year stay at Cagliari when he signed for Genoa this summer and could hardly have expected to be back facing his old team so soon.

Canini said: "It will be a strange feeling to play my first game against Cagliari. I spent seven years of my life on the island and it is not something I can delete.

"But during the 90 minutes I will keep my feelings in a draw and not think about it. Before and after the match I will greet all my old friends with great affection."

Genoa expect to have Brazilian striker Ze Eduardo in their line-up after his expected move to Milan fell through this week. However, fellow striker Cristobal Jorquera is doubtful with a knee injury.

Cagliari, who have been tipped by many for relegation from Serie A this season, will put most of their hopes in Mauricio Pinilla, who signed a permanent deal this summer after scoring eight in 14 appearances while on loan from Palermo last season.

The Rossoblu finished 15th last season, three places and six points off the drop zone.