ROME - League leaders AS Roma await a top-of-the-table clash against Inter, a match that will see the two best attacks in the division face off at the Stadio Olimpico on Saturday at 6pm. The Giallorossi, top with 12 points and 12 goals scored, host the Nerazzurri in second place with 13 goals, in a high-calibre early season fixture.

Inter manager Cristian Chivu is preparing for the big match with several enforced absences. Midfielder Hakan Calhanoglu is out with a muscle injury in his right adductor, as is defender John Stones with a left hamstring problem. The aim is to have them back after the upcoming international break. "He is thinking about changes in every department," Chivu stated, outlining a possible rotation.

Chivu's doubts

The uncertainties for Inter's lineup start in goal, where Josep Martinez and Provedel are in contention. In defence, Yann Bisseck, fresh from a call-up to the Germany national team under Jurgen Klopp, is pushing for a starting spot, while Federico Dimarco is ready to reclaim the left-back role after Carlos Augusto's recent performances. In midfield, Piotr Zielinski is called upon to replace the injured Calhanoglu, with a doubt between Curtis Jones and Luka Sucic for the spot beside him. On the right flank, the choice is between Ibrahima Diouf and Luis Henrique, the latter having started every other match this season.

In attack, after being rested last matchday, Lautaro Martinez should return to the lineup alongside the confirmed Marcus Thuram. Chivu could reintroduce some players who had limited minutes in Monday's 5-3 comeback win over Udinese.

Roma approach the challenge as unbeaten leaders, with a record of 4 wins from 4 games and a +11 goal difference. Their latest victory came on Sunday in Turin, with goals from Donyell Malen and Niccolò Pisilli. Malen is the team's top scorer this season with 6 goals in 4 appearances.

Saturday's match represents a first major test for the ambitions of both sides. For the Giallorossi, holding onto first place against their closest pursuer would send a strong signal to the rest of the league. Inter, for their part, aim to halt Roma's positive run and overtake them at the summit.

This story first appeared at Sky Sport IT