Hellas Verona vs Livorno preview - Team spirit is key - Mandorlini

Hellas Verona coach Andrea Mandorlini has lauded the team spirit in his side's camp ahead of Sunday's game against Livorno at the Marc' Antonio Bentegodi stadium.

Mandorlini's side lie in the top half of the table having collected seven points in five games since gaining promotion to the top flight last term.

"The secret to our good start is togetherness," Mandorlini said. "Our strength comes from a united squad.

"We want to do well this season and prove that we are worthy of the Serie A."

Verona twice battled from a goal down to earn a point against Torino on Wednesday.

"It wasn't an easy game but my players did a great job in twice coming back to earn a 2-2 draw," Mandorlini said. "I am satisfied with the result, but more importantly I am happy with the fighting spirit displayed by my players."

Verona have won all of their games at home and welcome a Livorno side who are showing no signs of slowing down.

Livorno, who were promoted to Italy's top flight this summer, have collected eight points so far, four of which have come from away games.

Wednesday's 1-1 draw against Cagliari followed their goalless draw at Genoa and lifted the Tuscan outfit to seventh place.

"To have taken a point against Cagliari is a good result for us," Livorno midfielder Pasquale Schiattarella said. "Cagliari are a good side and they proved it in the second half.

"Now we have to prepare in the best possible way for the game at Verona."

Livorno expect to have Marco Biagianti available this weekend with the Italian midfielder having missed the last two games with an ankle injury.