“There are decisions I’ll have to make at the last minute. With regards to Goran Pandev and all the other internationals who played midweek, I’ll have to pray and hope for the best,” confessed the Coach.

The Biancocelesti have plummeted down the standings after four straight defeats, although they were unlucky to fall in stoppages against Fiorentina last Sunday despite playing for over an hour with 10 men.

“Torino are one of those teams who don’t let you play. It is probable the game against the Granata will end up more difficult than the one with Fiorentina, especially as Toro focus a great deal on the counter-attack.”

Mauro Zarate and Lorenzo De Silvestri are suspended, while Cristian Ledesma is out for a fortnight with a muscular problem, joining Mobido Diakhitè, Mourad Meghni and Simone Del Nero on the sidelines.

Aleksandr Kolarov is one of several internationals whose fitness is a concern, as he only returned to training on Friday.

The Serb was given an extra day off to stay in his homeland so that he could be with his wife and new baby daughter.

Nestor Muslera maintains the goalkeeping gloves after Juan Pablo Carrizo was mercilessly jeered by the home fans.

“The role of goalkeeper is an unusual one, as we do not change it for mere substitutions, but rather as part of a cycle,” explained Rossi.

“Right now it is Muslera’s turn and we will not change, but Carrizo will return soon, that is for sure.”

The Olimpico crowd have been lambasted by President Claudio Lotito for not backing the team during these difficult times, but the Coach was more conciliatory.

“The fans know when the squad gives its all. This is an odd time and I am sure they will stand by us.”