Empoli vs. AS Roma: Time, TV schedule and how to watch online
Newly-promoted Empoli aren’t likely to cause title hopefuls Roma too many problems in their meeting on Saturday.
The giallorossi started their season with a comfortable 2-0 win over Fiorentina, while Empoli went down to Udinese by the same scoreline. The Tuscans have done very little to reinforce their squad over the summer, and they're expected to be embroiled in a long, hard relegation scrap. If they pick up anything at home to Roma, it'll be considered a big success.
Key player - Miralem Pjanić (AS Roma)
In the absence of the injured Kevin Strootman, Roma's shining midfield star is Miralem Pjanić. The Bosnian international is the giallorossi's creative force in the centre of the field, thanks to his outstanding range of passing and tendency to break forward to the edge of the penalty area. Empoli will have to limit his influence if they're to stand any chance of halting the Roman charge.
Key matchup - Gervinho vs. Vincent Laurini
When it isn’t Pjanić slicing through opposition defences, Roma usually rely on winger Gervinho to carve out chances. The Ivorian was the butt of many a joke during his time at Arsenal, but since he’s joined the giallorossi and been reunited with his old Lille coach Rudi García, he’s thrived. He may well make big mistakes in front of goal a little too often, but when it comes to dribbling through defences, there are few better in Serie A. Empoli right-back Vincent Laurini will have a busy evening trying to contain him.
AS Roma injuries and suspensions
Out: Federico Balzaretti, Kevin Strootman (injured). In doubt: None.
Empoli injuries and suspensions
Out: Massimo Maccarone (injured). In doubt: None.
Happily, both of these sides are pretty healthy at the minute. Roma will still be without their long-term injured duo of full-back Federico Balzaretti and central midfielder Kevin Strootman, though otherwise García has a full-strength team available. The only player Empoli coach Maurizio Sarri will be unable to select is veteran forward Massimo Maccarone, who is sidelined through injury.
Match Date/Time: Saturday, 6 p.m. local, 12 p.m. ET
Venue: Stadio Carlo Castellani, Empoli, Italy
TV: RAI International (U.S. and Canada - Italian), beIN Sports (U.S. and Canada - English), BT Sport 2 (U.K.), Premium Calcio (Italy)
Online: beIN Sports Connect (U.S. and Canada), BT Sport 2 (U.K.), Sky Go Italia (Italy)
