Eddie Howe says the ‘hardest part is ahead’ for Sandro Tonali
Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali (right) was applauded warmly before, during and after Saturday’s 4-0 Premier League win over Crystal Palace (Owen Humphreys/PA)
Eddie Howe had admitted the hardest part is yet to come for Sandro Tonali after watching him play a cameo role in Newcastle’s 4-0 Premier League victory over Crystal Palace.
The 23-year-old Italy international, who could face a lengthy ban if he is found to have breached betting rules by an ongoing investigation in Italy, was applauded warmly by the Toon Army before, during and after Saturday’s game at St James’ Park.
Tonali and his club do not yet know when he will discover his fate, but head coach Howe is convinced the support he has received to date will help him whatever comes his way.
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Howe said: “Let’s wait and see, but yes, I think the hardest part is ahead regardless of what happens.
“Immediately, you get a lot of attention and people are talking about the situation. He’s had the love of the supporters today, but that’s difficult to maintain over a long period of time. Who knows what’s ahead?
“I just think it’s great for him to know he’s got the support, not just of the senior management at the football club and the manager, but also the support of the supporters and they’re the most important people.”
Tonali was introduced as a 69th-minute replacement for Bruno Guimaraes with the Magpies already four goals to the good in what could conceivably be his final game for several months if he is found to have broken the rules and is suspended.
Newcastle’s Jacob Murphy (right) celebrates the opening goal against Crystal Palace (Owen Humphreys/PA)
Whether he is able to be involved in Wednesday night’s Champions
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