Chievo vs Empoli preview - Empoli boss expects tough match

Empoli coach Maurizio Sarri is anticipating a tough test when his side takes on Chievo on Sunday but stressed the importance of claiming points against teams also likely to be battling against relegation this season.

The Tuscan outfit, who gained promotion to Italy's top flight earlier this year, go into the encounter in Verona having clinched just two points from their opening four games.

Empoli looked to be heading for their first win of the campaign after going 2-0 up against AC Milan on Tuesday only to allow the Rossoneri to bounce back and settle for a point.

"We played a good game against Milan," Sarri said. "It's a pity that we weren't able to hold on for the win.

"But we showed character and determination.

"Now we have a very important game against Chievo, a team whose aim is to avoid the drop like us, and we hope to claim our first win of the season against them."

Sarri will have all of his players available with the exception of midfielder Mirko Valdifiori, who must serve a one-match ban.

Veteran striker Massimo Maccarone could earn his first start for Empoli this season having come on as a second-half substitute against Milan.

Eugenio Corini's Chievo are eager to bounce back from their 2-1 loss at Sampdoria in midweek, their third defeat of the campaign.

The outcome dropped the Verona outfit to 17th in the Serie A standings.

"I'm not concerned with our current position in the table," Corini said. "My players had the right approach to the game and we didn't deserve to lose against Samp.

"I am convinced we will achieve our aim this season which is to defend our top-flight status.

"There is still a long way to go and we cannot panic.

"Now we must focus on our match against Empoli and try to clinch three points."

Maxi Lopez is expected to lead Chievo's attack alongside Alberto Paloschi.