Mazzarri worried by Parma clash

Napoli coach Walter Mazzarri says the home match against Parma will be difficult given a lack of preparation after the international break.

The two-time Serie A champions have won their first two games, including a 2-1 victory over Fiorentina prior to the 2014 World Cup qualifiers.

But Mazzarri was quick to lament the side’s lack of preparation time compared to their opponents.

“It will not be easy, as I have only had the whole squad available since yesterday while Parma have had 15 days to prepare for the tie,” the Italian said.

Napoli’s preparation is not the only cause of concern with Miguel Britos out of action.

The key defender is sidelined with a muscular injury and Mazzarri is feeling uneasy about the Uruguayan’s absence.

“I am very concerned that there is no Britos. This is my real problem for tomorrow,” he said.

“Last year he suffered with a lot of problems of a physical nature, so we waited, he recovered and now he is back to top form.

“It’s a shame, because he’s important to us in the air and in set-pieces.”

However, Napoli will see the return from suspension of Goran Pandev, who is expected to lead the line alongside Edison Cavani against Parma.

“Pandev has proved from the first game this season that he is a major player,” Mazzarri said.

The manager is on the eve of his 300th game in charge and Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis spoke glowingly about the future when speaking to reporters.

“My hope is that he can be manager for 1000 games, and maybe all of them with me,” he said.