At first glance it would seem that Chievo are comfortably stationed in a mid-table slot and have virtually nothing to play for for the rest of the season. With 21 points from 18 matches, the Flying Donkeys from Verona are 12th in the standings.
Nevertheless, with just six points separating them from third-from-bottom Brescia, Stefano Pioli's side cannot rest at ease especially as their form is dangerously bordering on the worrisome.
Chievo have failed to register a single win in their last five league encounters and have lost three of those matches. With their last win coming way back in late November, the Veronese club are in desperate need of maximum points.
On Thursday Chievo went down 2-0 to Udinese in Udine in their first match of the new year despite playing most of the game with a one-man numerical advantage. A win against Palermo on Sunday isn't likely to come with ease but a victory is what Chievo need to repair themselves.
Back In Full Throttle
Palermo had ended 2010 on a note of disappointment as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Bari and were also knocked out of the Europa League. However, the Sicilians are back with a bang as they suffocated Sampdoria 3-0 on Thursday to commence the new year on a high.
Before the match Samp commenced as the best defensive side in the division but their record was demolished, as Palermo climbed up to sixth in the league standings. At the moment Delio Rossi's side have 30 points from 18 points and are now just two points off a Champions League spot.
Palermo have a decent away form too as the Rosanero have collected three wins out of a possible eight in the league on the road. However, the Aquile have not won their last two away fixtures in Serie A and just one of their last five.
TEAM NEWS
Chievo
Luciano is injured for the Flying Donkeys, who will line up in a 4-3-1-2 formation that will have Constant deployed as the playmaker behind Moscardelli and Pellissier.
Palermo
Hernandez and Pinilla remain injured and Carrozzieri is suspended. Delio Rossi will field a 4-3-2-1 system that will have Ilicic and Palermo as the two creative minds behind Miccoli.
Prediction
Palermo are on fire at the moment and will start the match against Chievo as favourites. However, Ceo are not easily conquered at home and it is likely that they will give it a fight.
Chievo 2-3 Palermo 
