Mandzukic, Howedes out of Napoli showdown

A double injury blow struck Juventus training just 24 hours before it faces Serie A leader Napoli.

Juventus striker Mario Mandzukic will not be seen in action against Serie A leader Napoli on Friday.

Mario Mandzukic and Benedikt Howedes have been left out of the Juventus squad for Friday's top-of-the-table Serie A clash with Napoli.

The duo picked up injuries during training on Thursday and will not be involved at the showdown at the San Paolo.

"Mario Mandzukic is unavailable after picking up an injury to the calf muscle in his left leg, while Benedikt Howedes has picked up an injury to the quadriceps muscles in his right thigh, both during the course of today's training session," Juve confirmed via its official website.

READ: Allegri wary of risking Higuain against Napoli

Striker Gonzalo Higuain is in the squad despite head coach Massimiliano Allegri's concerns about rushing him back too soon following hand surgery.

There were also doubts about Juan Cuadrado and Federico Bernardeschi but both have been included in the 21-man travelling squad.

Champion Juve heads into the match four points behind Napoli, which is top of the table and yet to be beaten in the league this season.