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Ferrara desperate to win battle of rookies

Third-placed Juve's laboured 2-1 win at Parma on Wednesday snapped a run of three defeats in all competitions but it did not end talk of Ferrara's job being on the line.

Indeed, speculation that Russia coach Guus Hiddink is being lined up as a replacement continues despite denials from the Turin club.

"We won and we'll talk about my situation a little less for the next three days... until the next match," Ferrara told reporters.

"I know this world too well not to know what is in store, but I'm not worried about it. My concern is to resolve the problems we have, game after game.

"This determination might not be enough on Sunday, an improvement in our play is needed too."

Part of Ferrara's problem is that he has struggled to find a formation that brings out the best in Brazilian duo Felipe Melo and Diego, who have been disappointing since joining the club in big-money, close-season deals.

He has also shown his ability to adapt, successfully fielding David Beckham in an unusually advanced position against Genoa to cover for the injured Pato in the England winger's first match since returning to Milan on loan from LA Galaxy.

Pato is a doubt for Sunday's game along with Clarence Seedorf after the Dutchman also missed the Genoa clash.

Forward Mario Balotelli will be suspended, defender Cristian Chivu is set for a long spell out after fracturing his skull during Inter's 1-0 win at Chievo Verona on Wednesday and midfielder Patrick Vieira is poised to join Manchester City.