The Giallorossi's 2-1 win over Inter Milan has moved them to within a point of Jose Mourinho's side and raised hopes of a first Scudetto title since the 2000-01 season.

And Ranieri hopes his side can continue their run of 21 league games without defeat at Stadio San Nicola, and he is hopeful that Italy international Di Rossi can shake off a niggling ankle problem that he has been carrying since the victory over Cagliari early in January.

Ranieri told Corriere dello Sport: "Daniele De Rossi is one of the best players I have ever met. He is the very symbol of ancient Rome in our time, he is a player who is willing to give all of himself to improve as a player and help his team. That's what I like about him and he is very important for us."

Di Rossi took a full part in training on Thursday and looks set to play some part on Saturday, while striker Mirko Vucinic has recovered from illness but is likely to be deployed on the left-hand side of midfield, with veteran talisman Francesco Totti playing just behind Luca Toni in attack.

The former Chelsea and Juventus boss has also moved to cool talk linking him with the national side, with current incumbent Marcelo Lippi almost certain to stand down after the World Cup in South Africa.

"Things are taking shape here in Rome," said Ranieri. "I want to continue here for another three or four years, so let me enjoy myself a little. I am staying here.

"As for the national job, I want to finish my career with the Italy job in a few years. But I repeat that for now, I train and live for Roma."

Bari are firmly ensconced in mid-table and are on a good run of their own, going through March unbeaten and picking up 11 points from a possible 15 in the process.

And coach Giampiero Ventura believes the game has the potential to be a classic.

He told Sky Sport Italia: "Saturday's game is a must see because Roma play real football, and, if we are positive, then it will be a great advert for football."

But Ventura knows it will be tough for his side, especially as they will be without striker Vitali Kutuzov, midfielder Sergio Almiron and defender Andrea Ranocchia through injury.

"We are enjoying an above average campaign, but we have had to deal with many injuries," he continued. "It would have been nice to face Roma with all our players, but it will not be like that."

Ventura should have midfielder Massimo Donati available as he has got over a muscle strain while Brazilian striker Barreto is set to partner Riccardo Meggiorini in attack.