Sandro Tonali is back to his best after a lengthy spell on the sidelines but Italy boss Luciano Spalletti believes the midfielder is still ‘releasing anger’ that built up during his 10-month ban for gambling offences.
Tonali stood out, again, as Italy beat Israel 4-1 on Monday evening, with the Magpies’ favourite making his fourth appearance for his country since the culmination of his betting-related ban back in August. The former AC Milan star played the entirety of the Nations League showdown, earning special praise from his manager at full-time.
“Tonali is immense in what he does. He’s incredible, and the game could last forever for him,” said the Azzurri coach. “When he turns the car on, he goes full speed and doesn’t change when he turns it off. Perhaps he is still releasing anger after what happened last year.”
Monday’s clash saw Tonali start alongside fellow countryman Nicolo Fagioli for the first time since the pair were both handed suspensions for betting-related rule breaking. The Juventus star was only handed a seven-month ban, compared to Tonali’s 10-month spell on the sidelines, after it was deemed he was betting on gambling, rather than football matches.
“They’ve [Tonali and Fagioli] felt everyone’s trust. We discussed how to recover them,” Spalletti continued. “When guys like them realise this, they can make a difference.”
Eddie Howe has taken his time reintegrating Tonali on Tyneside but the midfielder has slowly worked his way back into the Newcastle starting XI in recent weeks. Starting alongside Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton in recent weeks, the 24-year-old looks to have regained a permanent spot at club level following an impressive run of performances.
