Empoli vs Cagliari preview - Sarri impressed by Empoli mentality

Empoli coach Maurizio Sarri has hailed the team spirit in his side's camp ahead of Saturday's game against Cagliari at the Carlo Castellani stadium.

The Tuscan outfit are 13th in the table and have lost just two of their seven games since gaining promotion to the top flight earlier this year.

Last weekend's 1-1 draw at Genoa followed their 3-0 triumph over Palermo and extended Empoli's unbeaten run to five games.

"My players have the right mentality," Sarri said. "We cannot think of avoiding the drop by playing a different style of football than the one we play.

"We are not a defensive team. We don't go into a game looking to draw but rather going out to get a win.

"With our recent performances, I'm starting to think that we can achieve our aim which is to avoid the drop this season.

"I've never coached a squad with such personality."

Opponents Cagliari are 17th in the standings, just one point clear of the relegation zone.

Just like Empoli, Cagliari have only won once this season but travel to Tuscany in buoyant mood.

The Sardinian outfit came from 2-0 down to clinch a point against third-place Sampdoria last time out.

"Our pride allowed us to get back in a game that looked already lost," Cagliari striker Marco Sau said.

"We are a good team and I'm sure that sooner or later wins will come our way."

The visitors are hoping to call upon captain Daniele Conti, who is doubtful with a muscular injury.

Massimo Maccarone will lead Empoli's attack alongside Francesco Tavano.