Boss: Tonali ‘feels like a new signing’
SANDRO Tonali has a “clear motivation” to prove himself to Newcastle United fans after 10 months in football’s sin bin.
The Italy midfielder, who has been linked with a move back to the San Siro in the Italian media, is edging closer to the expiry of his ban next month.
And Eddie Howe has indicated that he not only looks sharp in training but there has also been a positive change in mood with the finishing line now in sight on his global FIFA ban for illegal betting.
Tonali will be back for the third game of the Premier League season against Tottenham Hotspur which takes place in front of the TV cameras on September 1.
Asked if Tonali felt like a ‘new signing’, the Magpies boss replied: “He does.
“He’s come back really fit and focused. You can see a change in his demeanour or but there is definitely a change in him in terms of feeling as he is closer to playing.
“It is very difficult when you have that stretch ahead of you and you are not going to play competitively for such a length of time.
“He now looks ready to play and ready to make a difference, he does feel like an absolute new signing and somebody we desperately missed last year.”
Tonali’s name has been chanted continuously throughout his stint in the stands with the midfielder and Newcastle’s backroom team touched by the kindness for the player on Tyneside.
Howe, speaking to Sky Sports, said: “He will feel like he’s got points to prove and objectives to hit.
“He came here with very clear motivations to be successful. He is a deep thinker and someone who wants to do very well. I have no doubt he will.”