Eddie Howe admits Newcastle’s ‘flair’ player did something he’s not seen before on international duty

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Newcastle United will soon be back in action.

Eddie Howe’s side may not have hit their straps in the Premier League just yet but, somehow or another, Newcastle are unbeaten so far this season.

At some point, performances will no doubt need to improve but the early signs are at least promising.

If they can take seven points from a possible nine as well as reach the fourth round of the Carabao Cup without playing particularly well, who knows what could happen when Newcastle click into gear?

After a difficult summer transfer window – one so bad it was slammed by club legend Alan Shearer – there have been at least a few shining lights.

The returning Sandro Tonali impressed sections of the support during the penalty shootout win over Nottingham Forest in the cup before pleasing Howe with a cameo during the win over Tottenham leading into the international break.

Tonali was then praised for his performances while away on international duty with Italy, particularly when providing a glorious assist for Inter Milan’s Federico Dimarco during their win over France.

Asked about that pass, in which Tonali pulled off an acrobatic backheel from which his teammate fired home, Howe was delighted.

Eddie Howe reacts as Sandro Tonali stars for Italy

Speaking ahead of the trip to Wolves on Sunday, Howe said when asked about Tonali’s pass (via The Chronicle): “I’ve not seen that exact piece of skill from him but it’s typical Sandro. He has that flair and the ability to do things that, 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.”

Sandro Tonali may not be ready to start for Newcastle United just yet

It will of course be tempting to put Tonali in from the start at Molineux. Going forward, it seems reasonable to assume he will be the man to sit alongside Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton in midfield.

Still, the competition for places is reasonably fierce right now. Chris Waugh of The Athletic has suggested Sean Longstaff may keep his starting berth, with the midfielder having remained on Tyneside during the international break.

Either way, Tonali looks capable of making an impact.