Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has expressed his approval of the Football Association’s ruling to suspend Sandro Tonali’s two-month ban.
Tonali, aged 23, will be eligible to resume playing by the end of August, provided he does not engage in any additional betting violations before the conclusion of the upcoming season.
Currently serving a 10-month suspension until August for previous infractions during his tenure in Italy, the Italy midfielder’s return to the field is contingent upon maintaining compliance with the FA’s regulations.
“It was the right decision, I think, that the FA arrived at – that his ban is not extended,” said Howe.
Tonali took a voluntary pay cut after his original ban was imposed.
“It was something he wanted to do, he felt the guilt… to show the club in good faith that he was sorry,” added Howe.
“He was determined to put it behind him and try to learn from it.”
Tonali was charged by the FA in March and admitted placing between 40 and 50 football bets after joining Newcastle from AC Milan last July, including four on the Magpies’ results.
Howe said Tonali deserved credit for admitting “he had issues and needed help”.
“I see a small fraction of his life time on the training ground. He has been a good professional and trained very well,” added Howe.
“I am sure he has had some difficult times, but he has conducted himself in a positive way.”
Despite their participation in the Champions League this season, they have fallen short of qualifying for Europe’s premier club competition for the 2025-26 campaign.
Howe noted that Tonali, had he been available, would have been a significant asset for the Magpies, motivating the team to secure crucial results.
“It’s been a huge frustration to have a top quality player that you can’t use,” he added.
“I know what he can do and the difference he’ll have made this year, but it wasn’t to be.”