The match was originally due to be played in August but was postponed due to the collective player’s strike and with both sides being arguably the surprise packages of the season so far, victory could give them a massive psychological edge going into the new year.

Udinese have had a superb start to the season after being tipped by many to struggle following the  departure of Alexis Sanchez to Barcelona. However, they have confounded the critics and currently sit third in the table and are also looking strong in the Europa League.

Like most of their recent seasons, much of their fine form has been down to the playmaking abilities of captaincy and talisman Antonio Di Natale (6/5 to score at anytime).

The Italian international has been his team’s shining light since arriving in 2004 and, despite repeated rumours that he could leave, has always remained loyal to his side. Look out for him to have a major impact as he always has a say in his side’s big matches.

The 2011-12 season was viewed by many as a rebuilding year for Juve as they look to re-establish themselves in both Italy and Europe following a disappointing few years. After finishing seventh last season, the Bianconeri brought in former midfielder Antonio Conte to take control of a long-term project, but he has worked his magic almost immediately, and they now sit at the top of the table.

Juve have a number of talented players at their disposal, but their key man is undoubtedly young midfielder Claudio Marchisio (11/4 to score at anytime) who is very much in the Conte mould.

The 25-year-old has shown himself to be one of Europe’s top players so far this campaign and is now firmly at the centre of his team’s plans. His ability normally provides ammunition for the likes of Simone Pepe and Alessandro Matri in the Juve frontline and Conte will be hoping his prodigy produces yet another spectacular performance to help his side to the points.

Marchisio’s partnership with Andrea Pirlo in the heart of the Juve midfield could make the difference as the duo have been exemplary together. Their combination aligned with the form of the Turin side’s front men means it’s hard to not to see them continuing their form and taking the win, but it’ll undoubtedly be a tight (Juventus 11/2 to win 1-0).

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Thursday’s clash at the Stadio Olimipco looks like it could be a welcome distraction from the troubles off the field concerning their captain and top goalscorer Carlos Tevez.

The Argentina striker handed in a written transfer to the club stating that he wants to leave City because he misses his family back in his homeland.

City have stated that they will not be selling the former Manchester United forward, who has also revealed that his relationship with some of the chief executives at the club have “broken down beyond repair”.

It’s extremely doubtful that City will play their disillusioned striker in a match that will have no real impact on the club’s season as they have already qualified for the knockout stages of the competition.

Juve were one of the favourites to lift the Europa League trophy this season but have crashed out of the competition in the group stages as Lech Poznan have proved to be a surprise package in the tournament so far.

The Italian side have proven difficult to beat and have not lost a game in their last 16 outings in all competitions.

It should be an exciting game with both sides having nothing to lose.

However, with the distractions off the field and the Blues likely to field a weakened side as they challenge at the top of the Premier League, it should be a win for the Old Lady.

It’s a similar situation for Liverpool as they take on Dutch side Utrecht at Anfield on Wednesday, although their star striker has not asked for a move away from the club (Liverpool 2/5, draw 7/2, Utrecht 7/1 – match betting).

The Reds have been very inconsistent in recent weeks having looked comfortable in their 3-0 win over Aston Villa at Anfield, they failed to show up in the 3-1 defeat to Newcastle United at St James’ Park.

With the unpredictable performances in league it’s not surprising that it’s hard to predict how Liverpool will play against Utrecht.

The Merseyside club secured a goalless draw with a young side when these two sides met in Holland back in September.

Utrecht have been disappointing in Europe and in the Dutch league and the Reds should come out top in this one in front of their home fans despite the likelihood of fielding a weakened side ahead of Roy Hodgson’s game against former club Fulham this weekend.

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