After losing two out of the first four matches, Champions Valletta will be hoping to bounce back on Sunday with a win over Sliema Wanderers in one of the two matches in programme at the National Stadium.

The Citizens, in fact, collected just four points from the first four matches thanks to a draw with Tarxien and a win over Floriana, suffering defeats to Mosta and Hibernians.

Despite high hopes, the Wanderers have disappointed so far, earning three points in three draws with Tarxien, Floriana and Qormi, losing the other game to Hibernians.

Sliema could have their latest recruit, Italian attacking midfielder Fabio Mangiacasale making his debut. On the other hand, Hamza Barry could make his return for Valletta.

Meanwhile in the first match, Mosta and Balzan cross swords in a battle for second place.

Both sides had an excellent start to the season as Mosta defeated Valletta, Pietà and Zebbug, being held in a draw by Naxxar Lions while Balzan beat Qormi, Zebbug and Birkirkara apart from a draw with Naxxar.

A win for either side would put the winner in second place, two points behind leaders Hibernians and one ahead of Birkirkara.

Balzan striker Gianmarco Piccioni will be unable to face his former team Mosta after being suspended for one match.