Sandro Tonali has dominated the pre-match talk ahead of Newcastle United v Crystal Palace at St James’ Park this afternoon.
Magpies’ head coach Eddie Howe fielded over 30 questions from the media at Friday’s press conference about Tonali, who is subject to investigation by the Italian Prosecutor’s Office and Italian Football Federation (FIGC) in relation to illegal betting activity.
If found guilty, the Italian is facing a lengthy ban from football but until the investigation is concluded, Tonali remains available for selection, although Howe admits he will have to take into account the midfielder’s mindset.
“He trained twice this week with us and he’s very much available for selection, like I do with all the players, analysing their training performances, how they look, how they feel, and Sandro has trained well with us,” said Howe.
“He’s had a very, very difficult couple of weeks,” Howe added. “He’s been dealing with a lot and from what I can see - I see him for a few hours a day – from what I can see, he’s handling himself really well and he’s dealing with his emotions incredibly strongly.
“But underneath that, I’m sure there’s a lot going on, so I’ll have to make a call. But always, I have to bring it back to football, I have to bring it back to his training performances and what he’s delivering on the pitch, and then try to make the best decision for the team.”
Tonali has started the last two games for Newcastle against Paris Saint-Germain and West Ham United - but will he start this afternoon? Here’s our predicted line-up:
1. GK: Nick Pope
Pope has started every game this season and kept five clean sheets.
2. RB: Kieran Trippier
Not only is Trippier a rock defensively but he’s turned into an assist king too with six in 10 games.
3. CB: Jamaal Lascelles
Lascelles has enjoyed his best run in the starting XI since early last year after coming in for the injured Sven Botman.
4. CB: Fabian Schar
The Switzerland international remains an ever present in the Magpies’ defence.