‘Still waiting’ - Newcastle United’s new 16-word response to Sandro Tonali’s 10-month ban

Newcastle United are still awaiting clarity on the details of Sandro Tonali’s 10-month ban from football.

On the eve of the Magpies’ 2-2 draw at Wolves on Saturday evening, it was confirmed by the FA that FIFA had ratified the Italian Football Federation’s suspension for Tonali following an investigation into illegal betting activity.

It’s been suggested the 23-year-old can still train with his Magpies teammates as normal and play in friendlies but according to Eddie Howe, the club is yet to receive confirmation of that.

Speaking ahead of Wednesday’s fourth round Carabao Cup clash at Manchester United, Howe revealed Tonali is still on Tyneside but has spent the last few days away from the training ground.

Howe said: “He’s here but has not trained with the group yet because we’re still awaiting that clarity.”

In a statement released on Thursday evening, the Italian Football Federation revealed Tonali will participate in a therapeutic plan and educational programme in Italy consisting of 16 commitments.

Tonali is a confessed gambling addict and has the full support of Newcastle United.

“The most important part of this whole incident is Sandro and his welfare,” Howe said previously. “It’s very easy for people to forget how young he is, the changes he’s had in his life coming from Italy to England.

“That’s hard enough to deal with, and now he has, of course, this situation, so we as a football club straight away, it was throw our arms around him and protect him and try to give him the love and support that he needs to find solutions to the problems that he’s had.

“That’s what we’re endeavouring to do with a lot of conversations, a lot of communication with him and his family, because it’s not just Sandro, it’s the people around him that are going to be so important to him as well.

“It’s been a big effort from us and I have to say, he’s handled himself superbly well. He’s been obviously emotional, but handled himself with respect and dignity.”

Tonali featured in matches against Crystal Palace and Borussia Dortmund whilst under investigation but return to competitive action until August next year - a few weeks into the 2024-25 Premier League season.