Newcastle are said to have received a positive update on Sandro Tonali's possible suspension ahead of their Champions League clash with Borussia Dortmund.
Tonali is currently being investigated by the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) as part of an investigation into illegal betting practices. According to Sky Sports Italy, the midfielder's legal team is working on a plea deal and is close to agreeing to a 10-month ban.
Tonali faces a maximum three-year ban if he violates Article 24 of the Sports Justice Code, which concerns football betting. If the 10-month ban is confirmed, the Italians will miss the remainder of the Premier League season and next summer's Euro 2024 tournament, should they qualify for the tournament.
The player's agent told an event in London last week that the midfielder was battling a gambling addiction, adding, “I hope this problem of gambling addiction will help save lives. Sandro's as well as that of many other young people are affected by the same problem.
“Sandro understood that he had to focus on this problem and confront his gambling addiction with a strong and determined approach.” Tonali was named on the bench for Newcastle's 4-0 win over Crystal Palace on Saturday, coming on late.
He then led the group on their traditional clapping tour around St. James's Park and was visibly emotional as he did so. But according to the Daily Mail, there is some positive news regarding Tonali, despite her impending suspension.
Eddie Howe, Newcastle coach
The Italian is expected to feature against Dortmund in tonight's Champions League clash, despite UEFA not wanting him to play.
However, because no ban has been confirmed by the Italian football governing body, they are "powerless" to stop it. But the important update is that Tonali will be free to train with Newcastle while he is banned.
This means that, although the Italian cannot play during his suspension, he will also be able to maintain his fitness and sharpness and continue to integrate with the rest of the team.