Newcastle United midfielder, Sandro Tonali is reportedly set to feature for the Magpies against Wolverhampton Wanderers despite being slapped with a 10-month ban for illegal betting.
The Italian football federation suspended Tonali from playing football on Thursday. Although, according to the Daily Star, they have not yet approved the ban.
The Italian FA would have recourse to FIFA and UEFA to extend the ban globally once it has been approved. Though, the process may take weeks before it is ratified.
The 23-year-old Italy international is “highly likely” to play for Newcastle on Saturday as a consequence. Before the weekend game, Eddie Howe stated: “Yes there is a high chance he could be available.
“There are a few things that have to happen before the ban is imposed.”
Howe added: “It is difficult. We have not had confirmation as a club. We heard the news and statement but not had anything from the Italian authorities and we are in limbo waiting for confirmation.
“He came on and did well against Dortmund. He was bright and he trained well. His mood is the same.
“He is good around the group and training ground. I’m sure when he goes home there are difficult times for him but he is handling it well.”
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Tonali was one of Howe’s key players when Newcastle made a Champions League comeback, having joined from AC Milan during the summer transfer window.
He has featured in 12 games across all competitions for the Magpies, contributing a solitary goal he scored on his Premier League debut against Aston Villa.
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