CONFIRMED lineups for Inter v Monza fixture

The 'Nerazzurri' (58) are still at the top of the Serie A standings following their recent draw with title rivals Napoli (57). With only one point separating the two teams, this evening's fixture is all the more important. Inter host bottom-of-the-table Monza with the opportunity to extend their lead to four points while the 'Biancorossi' chase points that aid them in their bid to avoid relegation.

But upset is not out of the cards for the Monza, who are nine points away from the survival zone, as Inter find themselves in a crisis on the flanks. Simone Inzaghi was without four of his five full-backs in the Champions League last 16 victory over PSV midweek, forcing him to deploy centre-back Bastoni on the left flank and the regular Dumfries on the right. The two reprise their roles this evening despite the return of Augusto from an ankle injury.

Inzaghi is still without three full-backs as Dimarco, Zalewski and Darmian all continue their spells on the sidelines. First-choice goalkeeper Sommer is also back after undergoing surgery on his thumb, though Martinez starts after keeping three clean sheets in his last four appearances. In attack, Thuram is rested to make way for Anautovic.

On the other hand, Alessandro Nesta confirmed that returns of Caprari, Castrovilli and  Pessina from injuries during his pre-match press conference. Akpa Akpro, Ciurria, Sensi and Caldirola continue their spells on the sidelines from previous injuries. Former Inter stars D’Ambrosio and Balde both start for Monza at the San Siro.

Confirmed  lineups for Inter v Monza

Inter's confirmed starting XI (3-5-2): Martinez (GK); Pavard, De Vrij, Acerbi; Dumfries, Barella, Calhanoglu, Mkhitaryan, Bastoni; Lautaro, Arnautovic.

Monza's confirmed starting XI (3-5-2): Turati (GK); D'Ambrosio, Izzo, Pereira; Birindelli, Urbanski, Bianco, Castrovilli, Kyriakopoulos; Keita, Mota.