Three to Watch: Can Roma restrict Lazio's attacking threat?

In the first Derby della Capitale of the season, Roma turn up at the Stadio Olimpico as the nominal visitors against Lazio.

There will be no love lost between the two sides when they face off on Sunday, with the Giallorossi sitting just one point above their city rivals in the standings.

The injury absence of Mohamed Salah will surely be giving the Biancocelesti extra belief in their chances of success, and our columnist believes these three players will be looking to capitalise on the absence of the Egyptian star…

Marco Parolo

A player who has grown greatly over the past two years with Lazio, Simone Inzaghi’s midfield is structured around providing the 31-year-old with the ball.

Although he has yet to find the back of the net, Parolo has created 13 chances for his teammates and made one assist so far this season. Of 449 passes, he has achieved an 83% completion rate – a strong signal that when provided the ball, the trequartista almost always finds his target.

A powerful shooter from long range and a precise passer,and manipulator throughout the centre, Parolo is a key influence for his side – Roma will have to work hard to prevent him rising to the occasion.

Ciro Immobile

After leaving Italy for stints with Borussia Dortmund and Sevilla before eventually coming back to Torino, the centre forward has once again re-established himself as a force to be reckoned with for the Aquile. With nine goals in just 14 Serie A appearances, the striker is making the rest of the league’s defences fearful of his striking prowess.

Perhaps not the finest all-round performer out there, Immobile’s weakness lies in his first touch – having made almost three bad controls per game. Therefore, it will not be his time allowed on the ball that is most threatening, but opportunities presented in front of the net.

With over four shots per game, the Italian international is speedy, effective in the air, capable with both feet, and a master exploiter of space. Preventing Immobile from any chances within the box will be imperative to keep the Giallorossi out of trouble.

Felipe Anderson

Having cooled off from the 2014/15 season in the capital, the Brazilian attacker has seemingly re-found his confidence and drive so far this term.

Although it seems Anderson has been around for some time, he is still just 23 years old, and has his best years still firmly ahead of him.

The wing forward has scored two goals and made five assists this season (Lazio’s highest in both categories) and has also created 28 chances. Additionally, he has 403 successful passes this season – of which 82% were forward moves.

In 13 total appearances, Anderson has made every start from the right flank. If Roma are to block their city counterpart from scoring chances, then great attention will be required in securing the left side of the pitch.