Three to Watch: Where does Palermo's main threat lie?

Roma host Palermo on Sunday evening, as Roberto De Zerbi’s men visiting the Stadio Olimpico for the latest round of Serie A games.

The Giallorossi have won three of their last four in the league, while the Rosaneri have scraped just six points all season.

Nothing is taken for granted, however: given the Brescian tactician’s aggressive style of play, along with Palermo’s surprisingly strong away form this term, our columnist believes these three players could pose the biggest threat to the Lupi…

Ivaylo Chochev

Achieving ten caps for his native Bulgaria while still only 23, Chochev has risen to the occasion with his increased playing time this season.

His long reach aids in the defensive midfielder’s ability to tackle and recover the ball from the opponent, whilst the statistics highlight his consistency – completing over three tackles and making almost four interceptions per match.

Chochev’s 85% pass completion rate has aided in Palermo’s containment of the ball within the centre of the pitch, and the former CSKA Sofia player will be giving his all to resist Roma’s high-pressure movement within his area.

Alessandro Diamanti

The journeyman attacking midfielder has just joined the Sicilian squad to help buildup in the attack. After stints with West Ham United, Watford and in China for Guangzhou Evergrande, the 33-year-old is looking to rekindle his career back in his homeland.

Predominantly left-footed, he is capable of much more than his sole assist would claim. Almost matching his career-high 80% pass completion rate already this season, his two key passes per match make him Palermo’s most dangerous outlet. In addition, he is fouled almost four times per game - as his tactical presence and short bursts of speed make him difficult to contain in the opposition half.

Free-kick situations are his specialty, while he often exploits space on the left wing to play the ball into the opponent’s area. Roma will have to be wary of conceding ground against Diamanti, as he won’t need too many chances to convert.

Ilija Nestorovski

Transferring from NK Inter Zapresic this past summer, the Macedonian centre forward has quickly risen to prominence in Western Sicily. Scoring three of Palermo’s five goals so far, the 1.83m tall Nestorovski often makes darting runs in the opponent’s box, while his play is complemented by a calm composure in front of goal.

In just three seasons in Croatia he scored a total of 71 goals, helping Zapresic gain promotion to the top flight. Last season in the First Division he scored 25 times – of which nine came in the last five matches.

Relishing his opportunity in Serie A, 26-year-old Nestorovski’s name is quickly becoming familiar to all of Serie A.

Spalletti will have his defenders focused on the mysterious striker from the Balkans – he may not remain an obscurity for long.