Mazzarri prepared for tough Catania

Napoli manager Walter Mazzarri thinks his side will be ready for the visit of Catania, despite a short break.

Mazzarri’s men hosted Villarreal in a goalless Europa League draw on Thursday but must back up for the Serie A match with just three days’ rest.

Despite the fact that Catania lie 16th in the league table, the Napoli boss is still expecting a stern test on Sunday.

“Catania is an excellent team and has the advantage of being fresh and having had a whole week to prepare the match against us,” Mazzarri said.

“We’re now one of the most valued team in Italy and they will spend all possible energies in order to play their best match, whereas we have played on Thursday and have had only a few days to recover.”

“We know what (Sunday’s) challenges are and we will do our best in order to overcome these.”

Mazzarri will be without forward Ezequiel Lavezzi due to suspension, but will be hoping that striker Edinson Cavani can add to his 20 Serie A goals he has scored so far this season.