Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe has praised midfielder Sandro Tonali for handling himself well during his betting ban as the Italian midfielder gets ready for his return to football. In October 2023, the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) imposed a suspension on 24-year-old midfielder Sandro Tonali, who had transferred to Newcastle United from AC Milan. This ban was related to breaches of betting regulations.
The English Football Association (FA) also issued a two-month suspended ban. Following these events, Tonali sought help for gambling issues and has actively participated in awareness campaigns about gambling addiction.During the previous season, Tonali marked his debut with Newcastle by scoring a goal, but that turned out to be his sole contribution in 12 league matches before his suspension took effect on October 27. Consequently, he was also ruled out of Italy’s squad for Euro 2024.
Tonali is expected to return to the field on August 28.
Speaking to the reporters ahead of the clash against Southampton, as quoted by Reuters, Howe said that Tonali did have some hard days but has trained well in recent times and has been a good teammate.
“He has handled himself really well in this period; I am sure he has had some hard days. He has trained really well and has been a great teammate. I know how focused and excited he is for his return,” Howe said.
Newcastle in a better position than majority of last season
Howe also suggested that the Newcastle squad is in a better position than the majority of last season. The Magpies were severely affected by injuries and Howe is hoping the likes of Nick Pope and Joe Willock will be in a better place as compared to last season.
“I think we are definitely in a better position than we were for the majority of last season, certainly to the back end of last season,” Howe told a press conference on Friday ahead of Saturday’s opening Premier League clash with Southampton.
“We have got (goalkeeper) Nick Pope back fully fit — I’ll touch wood with all of these because we have still got training before we play. (Midfielder) Joe Willock is in a lot better place. I wouldn’t say he’s 100% match fit; he’s had two games, trained well and is certainly on the road to being the Joe Willock we all know and love.
“Several others are in a lot better physical condition than last year.”
Newcastle will begin their campaign on August 17 against Southampton at the St. James’ Park.
