Parma vs Atalanta preview - Donadoni demands dignified display

Parma's players finally return to the pitch on Sunday when they host Atalanta facing the arduous task of putting their off-field distractions to one side.

The Gialloblu have not played since February 15 with their last two matches, at home to Udinese and away to Genoa, postponed due to the club's financial difficulties.

The Ducale club are on the brink of bankruptcy and morale is very low, with players and staff still waiting to receive wages which were due in July.

However, the Gialloblu have been now given financial assurances by the Italian Football League they will be able to complete the season.

Parma finished sixth in the 2013-14 campaign but have since endured a nightmare with just three wins to their name.

They have collected just one point since their last victory on January 6 and sit at the bottom of the table, 13 points shy of safety.

Parma have struggled at both ends of the pitch scoring just 20 goals while conceding 47 in 23 games.

Roberto Donadoni's men do have two games in hand but need to turn things around immediately if they are to avoid the drop.

And three points against 17th-placed Atalanta would be a good start.

The former AC Milan midfielder told a press conference: "What has happened over the last few months has meant we are now in trouble, and there is a psychological element to overcome as well.

"From a mental point of view, after two difficult months, we will try to be strong and to fight.

"We want to get to the end of the season with that same dignity that the team have shown thus far."

Atalanta occupy the last position of safety and travel to the Ennio Tardini with a new coach.

Former Lazio tactician Edy Reja replaced Stefano Colantuono, who was sacked this week after five years in charge due to his team's poor run of form.

Sunday's 2-1 defeat to Sampdoria was Atalanta's fourth straight loss and left the Bergamaschi just three points clear of the drop zone.

"I have found a group that is determined to emerge from this situation," Reja said. "We have the means to climb the standings.

"We have little time to prepare for our next game but we will do our best."

Atalanta have not won on the road since January 18 and will be without defender Guglielmo Stendardob , who is suspended.