Vieri rested for Valencia game
Vieri has been a fixture in the Inter side since missing the early part of the season with a series of niggling injuries, but having scored 18 goals in as many Serie A starts, Hector Cuper is keen to avoid him picking up any more injuries.
Clearly showing his priorities this season, Cuper has opted to rest the Italian striker for Sunday's trip to Lecce, where the Neroazzuri will look to retain their slender lead at the top of the domestic table.
Nicola Beati makes a rare appearance in the Inter squad, while youngster Mattia Altobelli - son of 1982 legend Alessandro - finds himself involved in first team duties for the first time.
Speaking about Vieri's absence, Cuper said: "I believe three matches of 90 minutes are too many. We will see.
"Only the black and blue in good conditions will be playing tomorrow.
"It is difficult. Inter players are interested in Uefa Cup, but I have to reconize that we are thinking about the Scudetto as well. Now we are now concentrating on Thursday's encounter.
The clash at the Giussepe Meazza is viewed by many as pairing the best two sides remaining in the tournament, pitching together as it does the Serie A and la Liga leaders.
