Juventus Will Want To Make A Statement Against Cagliari - Massimiliano Allegri

Cagliari coach Massimiliano Allegri is pessimistic ahead of his side's clash with Juventus.

Ciro Ferrara's job as Bianconeri trainer is reportedly on the line, and Allegri believes that the title challengers will want to demonstrate the gap in quality between the sides and make a statement of intent to the rest of the league.

"The difference between the two squads is like a chasm, both technical and physical," he is quoted as saying by Il Corriere dello Sport.

"I predict a competitive match, not a beautiful one, perhaps with some bad sportsmanship. Juventus will come here hungry for points. They will want to send a strong signal. For us it will be 100 minutes of suffering.

"We must not give them anything lightly, and to play like Cagliari - with great balance, attention and intensity."

The Rossoblu coach added that he still has some doubts over his formation, and is particularly concerned about the fitness of Alessandro Matri.

"I have some doubts, both in midfield and attack. Matri only joined us again yesterday, but in a game like this I need everyone."