Sandro Tonali sporting fresh ‘English look’ ahead of Newcastle United return - throwback to Man City legend

Sandro Tonali has ditched the Italian mop for a traditional English short back and sides ahead of his Newcastle United comeback.

Toon supporters could be forgiven for not recognising the Italian regardless of his new trim. Signed last summer for £55million, the marquee arrival played just 12 games before being banned for breaching betting regulations.

Italian authorities slapped the 24-year-old with a 10-month suspension - which expires on August 27. That means Tonali is banned for Newcastle’s first two games of the Premier League season.

The first top-flight fixture Tonali can play is against Tottenham Hotspur (September 1), although he will be allowed to feature in the Carabao Cup second-round clash set to take place on August 27 or 28. Fans are eager to see the former AC Milan man back in action at the heart of Newcastle’s engine room.

Midfield was a problem area for Eddie Howe last season, with Joe Willock and Joelinton also sidelined for most of the campaign through injury. When Tonali does return, he will be sporting a fresh trim, having ditched the continental locks.

Pictures released by the club’s media team show the midfielder with a shorter haircut while repping the slick Adidas training gear. Tonali can be seen boarding a plane as Newcastle jet off to Germany for training before a busy pre-season schedule.

The fashion move mirrors compatriot Roberto Mancini, who famously trimmed his long locks for a conventional English cut. Other stars seen making the trip include Jacob Murphy, Harvey Barnes and Newcastle manager Howe amid links with the vacant England hot seat.