Sampdoria's wonderful run of form has put Coach Delio Rossi back in fashion ahead of his side's visit to Cagliari.
It has been a while since he has been able to demonstrate what many consider to be his true talents as a tactician - not since Palermo has he had a team playing so well. It has caused a number of figures at the club to speak out in praise of the work he has done.
Edoardo Garrone, named as the new President last week, paid tribute to his ability with young players. "Rossi worked not only on the mentality of the players but also the tactics," he said. "The team brings aggression and commitment. The Coach has done well with a side that has a low average age - young people need to be managed in this way and with this Rossi is a maestro."
Angelo Palombo, brought back into the fold by Rossi having been left out by previous incumbent Ciro Ferrara, also chipped in with his two cents.
"Rossi has changed our mentality. Training sessions are harder and more intense," he said earlier this week.
It has certainly stood the team in good stead, and their ability to grind results out will come in useful against an outfit in Cagliari that make teams work for wins.
"We must continue on our way, working as we have done so far. The Championship is still long," striker Nene said after last week's defeat, only their second of 2013 and one that ended a seven game unbeaten run.
The last time they suffered a defeat that ended a good run of results, they went on to win just one in 11 games, losing eight. A similar run from now until the end of the season could well see Ivo Pulga and company dragged back into the relegation fight.
They miss only two players on Sunday, but they are two important ones. Right-back Francesco Pisano is suspended and captain Daniele Conti is injured.
Samp are without suspended duo Daniele Gastaldello and Nenad Krsticic.
Keep an eye on: Lorenzo De Silvestri (Sampdoria) - Once one of the bright prospects of Italian football, his career has been stalled through injury and loss of form. Has regained a regular place as right wing-back at Samp, and will be targeting an Italy call-up in the future if the strong showings continue.
Form guide: Cagliari (W D W W L) Sampdoria (D W D W W)
Last season: Not played
Stat fact: Sampdoria haven't scored a single goal in the opening 15 minutes of any game this season.
Cagliari (probable): Agazzi; Perico, Rossettini, Astori, Avelar; Dessena, Nainggolan, Ekdal; Cossu; Pinilla, Sau
Sampdoria (probable): Sergio Romero; Rossini, Palombo, Costa; De Silvestri, Poli, Maresca, Obiang, Estigarribia; Sansone, Icardi
Better's Prediction: Over 2.5
