Newcastle United have got Sandro Tonali back, and they are still in the Carabao Cup.
It was far from a perfect performance from Newcastle United against Nottingham Forest, but it was good enough to ensure that the Magpies were not knocked out of the cup early.
Eddie Howe’s side needed penalties to get through, and there was relief from Alan Shearer as Newcastle United advanced to the third round of the Carabao Cup. They will face AFC Wimbledon away from home in the next round.
Sean Longstaff scored the decisive spot kick against Nottingham Forest, as Newcastle won 4-3 in the shootout after a 1-1 draw in normal time. He had started the game on the bench, having come on for Sandro Tonali after just over an hour.
Sandro Tonali makes his Newcastle United return
After his 10-month suspension came to an end, Tonali made his Newcastle United return on Wednesday night.
He was named in Eddie Howe‘s starting XI at the City Ground, and at times looked like he had never been away. There were some brilliant moments from the 24-year-old, who added real dynamism to the Newcastle United midfield.
Tonali’s incisive passing even helped Newcastle take the lead, and it was a real joy to watch him play football in a black and white shirt again.
What happened to Tonali after the full time whistle
Throughout his return to action, Tonali was serenaded by the travelling Toon Army. There were consistent cries of ‘Sandro, ole, ole, ole’, and they continued after the final whistle.
Following the penalty shootout win, the Newcastle United players and staff lined up in front of the away fans and applauded them, and it resulted in a brilliant moment for Tonali.
As the fans sang his name, Jacob Murphy and Jason Tindall ensured he had his moment, and pushed him in front of the group to take in the adulation from the Newcastle supporters.
Tonali then pumped his first, caught an Italy flag from a fan and began to embrace supporters. It was a beautiful moment, and one that Tonali should remember for a long time.
Special moments will continue for Tonali
It is so good to have Tonali back from suspension, and another big moment is on the horizon for him.
Newcastle United face Tottenham Hotspur at St James’ Park on Sunday, which could see Tonali make his home return.
The atmosphere should be special, especially when Tonali makes his first St James’ Park appearance since October 2023. Given how good their displays are, it would not be a surprise to see Tonali feature heavily in Wor Flags’ pre-match display before the Tottenham game.
Now Eddie Howe has a decision to make, as he ponders whether Tonali is ready to start in the Premier League. He got 60 minutes in the tank against Nottingham Forest, but Howe may opt to start him on the bench for the Premier League clash with Spurs on Sunday.
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