Cagliari vs Torino preview - Cagliari make appeal to fans

Cagliari have made an impassioned plea to their fans ahead of Sunday's behind-closed-doors meeting with Torino, urging supporters not to gather outside the controversial Is Arenas stadium.

The latest instalment in the troubled history of the new-build in Quartu Sant'Elena saw authorities order the Rossoblu to exclude fans for the visit of Torino, with Cagliari president Massimo Cellino still in custody as investigations continue into the legality of the stadium.

Cagliari are grateful not to have been ordered to play the game at a neutral ground on the mainland and so requested fans steer clear of the stadium by way of a show of cooperation with the authorities.

A statement on cagliaricalcio.net read: "Dear all Rossoblu fans, as you know, because of the complicated situation that surrounds the Stadio Is Arenas, the authorities have decided that Cagliari-Torino will be played behind closed doors.

"We know this is painful, not being able to watch your favourite team and support them in their battle to avoid relegation. It is a source of much bitterness for us and for you.

"Now, though, is the time to take responsibility. Please do not gather outside the Is Arenas on Sunday afternoon. It is very important to avoid creating crowds near the stadium.

"Follow the game on television or in a public place where the images will be broadcast.

"It's easy to see that Cagliari are going through a delicate time so we ask for your cooperation and understanding, and for you to take responsibility.

"The future of Cagliari is in your hands. We reiterate that, in accordance with all the relevant authorities, we are working to solve the problem of the Is Arenas once and for all. Thank you."

The negativity surrounding the stadium appears to have had the opposite effect on the Sardinian club's players, though, with head coach Ivo Pulga overseeing a fine six-game unbeaten run.

Pulga has no injury or suspension concerns as Cagliari look to extend their unbeaten head-to-head run against Torino to a fifth game, having kept clean sheets in the last four encounters.

The Granata will need to end their Sardinian hoodoo in order to break into the top half but forward Jonathas and midfielder Mario Santana are unlikely to travel due to injury.

Head coach Giampiero Ventura said: "We are giving little or nothing away to opponents and that makes me happy, I can see the team is improving and growing."