By Martin Graham | fifteenth Aug 2024
Newcastle United’s midfielder Sandro Tonali is ready to return to motion from 28 August after serving a 10-month suspension for breaching betting guidelines. The Italian Soccer Federation (FIGC) imposed the ban on the 24-year-old in October 2023 attributable to violations of rules that prohibit gamers from betting on soccer matches organised by the FIGC, UEFA, or FIFA throughout his time in Italy.
Tonali joined Newcastle in a high-profile £55 million switch from AC Milan in July 2023, however his suspension got here shortly after he had performed simply 12 video games for the membership.
Suspension finish date confirmed
Newcastle United introduced that the FIGC had formally confirmed the size of Tonali’s suspension, which is able to conclude on 27 August. This paves the best way for the Italian midfielder to return to the squad, together with his first potential look being within the Carabao Cup towards Nottingham Forest, relying on the timing of the fixture. Ought to he not be chosen for that match, his comeback may as a substitute occur within the Premier League fixture towards Tottenham Hotspur on 1 September.
Tonali’s suspension is his second disciplinary motion for betting breaches. In Could 2024, he was handed a two-month ban by the English Soccer Affiliation after admitting to comparable violations. Nonetheless, this punishment is suspended and can solely be enforced if he commits additional breaches earlier than the season’s finish.
Gearing up for a powerful comeback
Regardless of being unable to compete, Tonali has remained concerned with the squad, coaching with the workforce all through pre-season. Supervisor Eddie Howe has highlighted the midfielder’s focus and readiness as he approaches the tip of his suspension. “He’s been working laborious in coaching and is raring for his return. His edge is there now,” stated Howe, emphasising the participant’s significance to the workforce.
Newcastle will start their Premier League marketing campaign on 17 August at house towards Southampton, with Tonali unable to take part attributable to his suspension. Nonetheless, his anticipated return on the finish of August is probably going to supply a fine addition because the workforce pushes ahead right into a demanding season forward.
Martin Graham is an MFF sports activities author
