Newcastle coach Eddie Howe says Sandro Tonali has shown a ‘strong character’ although the last period has been ‘very difficult for him.’
The Italian midfielder has been banned for 10 months following a betting scandal so he won’t be available for selection for Newcastle until August 2024.
The Magpies visit PSG in a crucial Champions League fixture tonight and Howe provided updates on the former Milan midfielder in an interview with Sky Sport Italia.
“A really strong character in the last few weeks. It’s been very difficult for him, we don’t underestimate the challenge that he faces, when you are not available to play for a long period of time you have to train at a good level,” Howe said.
“It’s not easy to keep motivated through that time, but so far he’s done a very good job. He’s been very good around the other players, supporting them. I’m very frustrated he’s not available tonight because he’d been really helpful, but we just have to deal with this situation.”
Tonali joined Newcastle from Milan last summer in a deal believed to be worth circa €80m including add-ons.
He scored on his debut with Newcastle in August and made 12 appearances with the Premier League club this season before the FIGC ban became effective.
Tonali won one Serie A title with Milan in 2021-22, scoring seven goals in 130 appearances across a three-year spell at the Stadio Meazza.
The 23-year-old made his senior Italy debut in October 2019 and has made 15 international appearances with the Azzurri.