Napoli, Inter tackle form woes

Napoli and Inter Milan head into key matches in Serie A on Friday with both sides looking to arrest alarming slumps in form.

Walter Mazzarri’s Napoli, who have won just once in six league games travel north to take on Fiorentina, who have lost only twice at home in Serie A all season.

Mazzarri outlined just how difficult it will be for his team in Florence.

“I am only focused on the match against Fiorentina, which is going to be very tough, especially given their recent results at home,” Mazzarri said.

“They have won their last two matches against very good teams, in Siena and Udinese. They have taken 21 points out of a possible 28 at home but only seven in away matches.”

Inter’s recent form is even worse, with Claudio Ranieri’s side having lost four of their last five in all competitions.

Last time out, bottom side Novara came to the San Siro and took all three points.

On Friday, Inter host another struggling side, Bologna, with Ranieri under no illusions that they have to improve.

“Everyone here is always being tested – me included, I have a contract but I know that if things go wrong I’ll be sacked, so if I want to remain here I need to give all that I have and the same is true for my players,” Ranieri said.

Both Inter and Napoli will look to gain momentum ahead of their UEFA Champions League last 16 ties next week.

Napoli face Chelsea in Italy and Inter go to France to take on Marseille.