Juventus seek to ruffle Roma in title tilt

Tonight, Juventus will look to show Roma they must watch their backs in the race to challenge leaders Inter for the Serie A title.

Juve have been surprisingly competitive on their return to the top-flight after an enforced spell in Serie B for a match-fixing scandal, but their chances of winning the championship have receded in recent weeks as they fell 12 points behind Inter.

Finishing second and earning automatic qualification for the group stage of the Champions League appears a more attainable target.

Juventus, with 44 points from 22 games, would pull within one of second-placed Roma by beating them in Turin this weekend.

The media have billed the match as a battle between Roma's slick soccer and Juve's character and determination. Roma's Christian Panucci insists his side also have plenty of grit allied to their technical ability.

"They are tough, but we are pretty tough too," he said.

"Naturally, if they come in front of us at end, it means we have got something wrong".

Brazilian defender Juan should be back from a foot injury for Roma.

Coach Luciano Spalletti may rest some regulars ahead of Tuesday's Champions League clash with Real Madrid but captain Francesco Totti is expected to play, despite a bad back that has been troubling him in recent weeks.

Juve boss Claudio Ranieri will be able to call on Guglielmo Stendardo as the defender has served a three-match ban he picked up with Lazio before moving on loan last month.

Inter are without suspended midfielder Patrick Vieira for this afternoon's game against Livorno.

Fifth-placed Milan will hope to put their bid for a top-four and a Champions League spot back on track today after being held 1-1 by Livorno on Wednesday.

Milan striker Ronaldo will need surgery after suffering a knee ligament injury in the draw.

Italian media suggested the injury could put an end to the 31-year-old's career.

Kaka and Alexandre Pato are on the mend from their respective knee and ankle problems, but they may be saved for next week's visit to Arsenal in the Champions League.