Inter Milan vs Hellas Verona preview - Mandorlini eyeing Inter shock

Hellas Verona coach Andrea Mandorlini is hoping his players continue to surprise him when they visit his beloved Inter Milan on Saturday.

The promoted outfit heads to the Giuseppe Meazza stadium having picked up 16 points from their first eight games.

Last weekend's 3-2 triumph over Parma was their third straight win and lifted Verona to fourth place, one spot and one point clear of Inter.

"I really didn't think we would find ourselves in this position but I also have to say that we deserve it," Mandorlini said.

"I don't know what will happen next, whether we will return to be normal or perhaps my players will continue to surprise me.

"It's normal for our fans to dream but our scudetto will be to defend our Serie A status as soon as possible."

The game in Milan will have a special significance for Mandorlini, who played at Inter for six years.

"I've never hidden the fact that I'm passionate about Inter," he said. "When I was young I supported Inter, then I played there and I won the scudetto (1988-89) under coach (Giovanni) Trapattoni.

"For me this will never be an ordinary game. To arrive to the San Siro always gives me a special feeling.

"But we are not going there already thinking that we are beaten.

"I would sign right now for a draw because it would mean Verona and I will be happy."

Inter go into the encounter on the back of last weekend's 3-3 result at Torino.

A last-gasp Nicola Bellomo equaliser denied Inter their fifth win of the campaign.

The outcome followed their 3-0 defeat to Roma and extended Inter's winless run to three games.

"I think (Inter coach Walter) Mazzarri is a good coach," Mandorlini said. "But I think it will be difficult for Inter to fight for the scudetto this season."

Inter trail nine points behind Serie A leaders Roma.

The hosts will be without goalkeeper Samir Handanovic, who serves a one-match ban after being sent off in last Sunday's encounter in Turin. Juan Pablo Carrizo will take his place in goal.

Mandorlini will be at full strength with defenders Domenico Maietta and Evangelos Mora having recovered from muscular injuries.