Newcastle United star Sandro Tonali is set to play against Wolves on Saturday despite receiving a 10-month ban for breaching betting regulations. The Italian midfielder received a lengthy ban that will see him miss the entire season, but he will be available for selection with head coach Eddie Howe prepared to continue selecting him.
The 23-year-old, who signed from AC Milan in July in a £60million deal, will be suspended from playing football for 10 months once the ban is ratified. Tonali will also partake in eight months of gambling rehab after admitting to placing bets on his own team while playing in Italy.
Gabriele Gravina, president of the Italian FA (FIGC), revealed on Thursday that a plea agreement had been reached with Tonali’s camp regarding a 10-month ban.
But the final details are still being ironed out, with Tonali playing in the Magpies 1-0 defeat to Borussia Dortmund on Wednesday. And Howe has confirmed he will use Tonali so long as he is available – adding there is a “high chance” the central midfielder could feature against Wolves at Molineux on Saturday.
When asked if Tonali could play, Howe told reporters on Friday: “Yes, there is a high chance he could be available. There are a few things that have to happen before the ban is imposed.”
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