SANDRO TONALI is in line to play against Wolves tomorrow – despite being slapped with a 10-month ban for illegal betting.
The head of the Italian FA confirmed yesterday that the Magpies midfielder was suspended until next August.
PASandro Tonali, right, is available for the Wolves clash[/caption]
Tonali, 23, is alleged to have placed bets on matches involving AC Milan while he played for the Italian giants.
Toon boss Eddie Howe revealed that Newcastle have not yet had official word through from Fifa, meaning he will travel to Wolves with the squad this afternoon.
He said: “It’s a difficult one because we haven’t had official confirmation as a football club.
“We’ve heard the news, the specualtion but we haven’t heard anything from the Italian authorities so we’re sort of in limbo waiting for that official confirmation.
“I think there is a high chance that he coyuld be available for us. I think there are a few things that need to happen before the ban is imposed so let’s see.”
The £55million summer signing has also been ordered to complete an eight-month rehabilitation programme as part of his plea bargain.
“Gambling addict” Tonali was found to have placed bets on his former clubs, Brescia and AC Milan.
He came off the bench during Wednesday’s 1-0 Champions League defeat to Borussia Dortmund.
And Howe added: “He came on and did really well, and that’s how he’s trained.
“His mood has been good around the group and training ground, though obviously it’s there in the background so I’m sure when he goes home there are difficult times. But as far as I can see, he’s handled himself the right way.”
News Tonali was involved in a betting scandal alongside Aston Villa’s Nicolo Zaniolo broke two weeks ago.
But the Italian authorities’ failure to confirm the ban means Tonali was able to play against Crystal Palace and Borussia Dortmund.
The Italian became emotional as Newcastle fans gave him a standing ovation, showing support for Tonali after his agent admitted he has a “gambling addiction”.
Newcastle could launch legal action against Milan for selling them Tonali in the summer.
They are also understood to be exploring the possibility of reducing his wages, and internal club talks have begun with lawyers.
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