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Baldini rests key players

Parma coach Silvio Baldini has decided to rest several of his key players for their Uefa Cup tie.

Parma coach Silvio Baldini has decided to rest several of his key players for the second leg of their UEFA cup tie against NK Maribor.

Alberto Gilardino, Domenico Morfeo, Mark Bresciano, Daniele Bonera and Cesare Bovo will all miss the trip after picking up slight knocks.

The decision is surprising as the Italians need to protect the slender 3-2 lead they gained at the Stadio Ennio Tardini.

Baldini hinted that Serie A is his main priority insisting: "The players are injured and to play them would be a major risk.

"I have to safeguard them for the team's heritage."

The absence of Gilardino means the former Middlesbrough striker Massimo Maccerone will be given a starting role.

Baldini confirmed his inclusion, saying: "Parma's attack is on his shoulders."

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