Alessandro Matri gives the Bianconeri the lead but Udinese answer through Antonio Floro Flores. However, Matri would not be denied the winner. Would it be hyperbolic to say Claudio Marchisio is the preeminent midfielder in the Serie nowadays? Juventus sit on top of the Serie in a dogfight with Milan.

By CALEB SONNELAND

With the second half of the Europa League group stages kicking off today, the English Premier League quartet involved in the competition are sitting pretty in their respective groups.

Tottenham and Stoke City sit atop Groups A and E, respectively, on seven points, while Birmingham City is tied for the top spot with Club Brugge on six points — the two sides clash today.