Sandro Tonali ‘a player we love’ says Newcastle boss Eddie Howe

Returning midfielder Sandro Tonali is “a player that we absolutely love,” says Newcastle manager Eddie Howe.

The Italy midfielder played just eight times last season after signing from AC Milan for a reported £55m, after being hit with a 10-month ban for breaching betting rules.

But he made his Premier League return as a substitute against Tottenham before the international break, where he starred in creating a goal against France with a superb backheel.

Speaking before Sunday’s trip to face Wolves, Howe said: “It’s typical Sandro. He has that flair and the ability to do things that can make the difference.

“It was an outstanding finish as well as a great team move, but he has the ability. I’ve always said that he’s a player that we absolutely love.

“I think those games for Italy will have done him the world of good – he’s performed well and has been part of a winning team as well.

“So great for Sandro. I’m sure he’s in a really good place. It’s the first few weeks back and we’re delighted he’s available.”

Eddie Howe on Sandro Tonali being back with the Italy squad:

“I was pleased to see him play, he has performed well, those games would have done him the world of good. It is still the first few steps for him, but we are delighted he is available for us. Sandro has that flair and… pic.twitter.com/pFRV5kL5Zv

— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) September 13, 2024

Newcastle could be without fellow star midfielder Bruno Guimaraes who picked up an injury while away with Brazil, and Joe Willock is also still out.

“Callum Wilson is a little bit behind where we want him to be,” added Howe.

“We envisaged he might be training for the games coming up, but he is not there yet.”