Milinkovic-Savic favoured over Meret to start Napoli-Roma
Recent training sessions point to the Serbian in goal for the 18:00 CET (17:00 UK, 12:00 ET) kick-off at the Maradona. Arena Napoli understands his command of high balls and his passing from the back are behind Allegri's thinking.
Milinkovic-Savic is ahead of Meret to start in goal against Roma on Sunday 25 October, according to information reaching Arena Napoli. Signals from the last training sessions point that way, and head coach Allegri's choice rests on specific needs rather than a hunch.
Against aggressive opponents or sides with a strong attacking structure, the Serbian offers more than his team-mate: secure claims on crosses, greater physical presence and less pressure on the centre-backs at set pieces. He can also mix short build-up with a more direct game, which helps against a high press. Meret remains a reliable option and was picked as first-choice goalkeeper on several occasions early in the season.
Read also Napoli name Meret, De Bruyne and Höjlund to face Roma
This is an indication, not a confirmation: the line-up is not yet known. But the decision carries weight beyond one position. Napoli go into the game 10th with 10 points, 7 behind third place, and Allegri has tied the second test of his position to this match. Picking the goalkeeper in a game like this is entirely the coach's responsibility.
It raises a question. If the hard games call for Milinkovic-Savic, why was Meret preferred on several occasions early in the season? The answer will show at 18:00, either in the team sheet or in the match.
Source: AreaNapoli
Leggi questa notizia in italiano →
Related
Napoli-Roma will not sell out, with about 45,000 expected at the Maradona
Vergara returns to full training ahead of Roma game
Galliani backed by clubs as FIGC presidency challenger to Malagò
