Three to Watch: Veteran experience makes Chievo a wily competitor

The Giallorossi are coming off last week’s heartbreaker in Turin, with the loss allowing the rest of the pack to make up ground. Meanwhile, the Flying Donkeys are working off a strong start to the season, led by a veteran force.

Therefore, our columnist believes it will these three experienced faces could make the difference for the Gialloblu…

Valter Birsa

After spending the past five years floating between clubs in Serie A, the attacking midfielder is the leading force behind the Gialloblu frontline.

Originally having played as a striker early in his career, the Slovenian’s offensive talents have translated into four goals this season, backed by an equal number of assists – a feat which leaves him as top scorer and joint-top assist man for his club.

Additionally, Birsa has created 31 chances, and has completed 471 passes this season with a pass accuracy of 83% - which 70% were forward passes.

Led by an explosive and deadly left foot, it is imperative that Roma’s defence keeps calm and prevents open space for Birsa around the keeper’s box. Spalletti will be keen to have his defenders keep their eyes on him at all times.

Sergio Pellissier

A living legend for the club, the centre forward is entering the golden years of his career at 37-years of age.

A player who built his status on keeping the Flying Donkeys in Serie A, the captain is having a stable season, having scored three times and created one assist.

Though he does sometimes show the effects of his age – managing a meager 36% shot accuracy – Pellissier still has what it takes to rise to the occasion when needw be, as he always has.

Just 11 days ago he scored his 100th goal in Serie A – all of which have come in the yellow of the Veronese club. To relax against the wise opponent could result in him adding a few more to that.

Dario Dainelli

After spending six years in Florence, the 37-year-old centre back left his native Tuscany for a move to Liguria with Genoa, before eventually landing in Verona where he has spent the past four years.

At 1.91 metres tall, it takes something special to beat Dainelli in the air. As a result of those obvious abilities, he has made a total of 45 interceptions, completed 12 blocks, and won 58 clearances in 1260 minutes played so far this season.

In the twilight of his career, the defender finds himself facing the opponent he made his Serie A debut against. With that in the back of his mind, Dainelli will be looking for revenge from his 1-0 defeat 15 years ago.