Three to Watch: Empoli rely on experience in attack

Roma travel north to Tuscany in search of their sixth win in seven games.

Giovanni Martusciello’s side have managed just one win all season, but our columnist picks out three players that will complicate Roma’s push for five wins in a row…

Alberto Gilardino

The Azzurri have failed to score in their last seven matches, but Gilagol will be an ever-present threat. With over 240 goals in his career between club and country, the 2006 World Cup winner transferred to Empoli in search of more playing time, continuing his illustrious career at 34 years old.

Gilardino’s capabilities around the goal cannot be undermined, as he only needs one chance to make the opponent pay. A right-footed, classic No. 9, the centre forward helped save Palermo from relegation last season – contributing strikes that made him the ninth highest Serie A scorer alongside Giuseppe Signori and Alessandro Del Piero.

Further, he is tied for the record of most clubs scored against in Serie A – with none other than Francesco Totti (and Roberto Baggio).

The Roma defenders must not take their eyes off Gilardino, not even for a moment, as his excellent positional sense and opportunism could come back to haunt a familiar foe. Without a goal in his new location, it’s just a matter of time before he climbs towards last season’s mark of ten goals.

Jose Mauri

After an impressive season with Parma two years ago, Mauri found himself wanted by many Serie A teams. Following a move to AC Milan and an underwhelming first season with the Rossoneri, the Argentine midfielder is now in search of increased time on the field.

Completing almost three tackles and making almost two dribbles per match, Mauri has rejuvenated the Azzurri midfield, providing balance between both sides of the pitch. Empoli will certainly benefit from having him for the season on loan, where he will be able to exercise his versatility throughout the field and make the most of his potential.

With re-found confidence, he will be able to add upon his impressive season at Parma from just a few years ago.

Massimo Maccarone

Big Mac has claimed a total of 99 goals with Empoli, but has yet to find the back of the net this campaign. A forward known for his mix of power and balance, his size and pace – as well as shooting ability with both feet – make him a distinguished attacker that complicates matters for any backline.

After rising to prominence at Middlesbrough, Maccarone became a centrepiece of Siena’s attack. Moves to Palermo and Sampdoria were less successful, but he found the right climate and setting just 30 kilometres from Florence. Although his best years are behind him, the striker’s experience and confidence will give him the advantage in Sunday’s confrontation.

Given his special incentive, the Giallorossi defenders will have to be extra careful in not becoming the victims of Big Mac’s 100th goal for the Azzurri.