The new arrival from Werder Bremen came close in the 67th minute with a long-range attempt and was replaced by Mauro Camoranesi in the final minutes as Chievo desperately pressed to equalise.

In remaining action, Roma, who welcome Juve next weekend, lost 3-2 at Genoa, Palermo beat Napoli 2-1 in a southern-Italy derby and Italian Cup winners Lazio struggled to edge guests Atalanta 1-0.

Sampdoria snatched a last-gasp 2-1 win at 10-man hosts Catania, promoted Livorno and Cagliari drew 0-0, and newcomers Parma drew 2-2 at Udinese, who had Antonio Di Natale twice on target.

Giants AC Milan won 2-1 at Siena Saturday to hold a two-point lead on Inter ahead of next weekend's city derby, while Fiorentina drew 1-1 at Bologna.