It feels like the right time for Sandro Tonali to start again for Newcastle United.
The 24-year-old has only started for Newcastle United once since his suspension came to an end. That was in the Carabao Cup against Nottingham Forest.
Newcastle United fans were very impressed with Sandro Tonali that night, and are eager to see more of the midfielder.
However, Eddie Howe has been reluctant to start him in the Premier League. Newcastle are eager not to overload Tonali so soon after his return, while there is the added complication of him playing 180 minutes for Italy during the international break.
But Howe has no problems with Tonali‘s Italy exploits, and has made it very clear what the £55million man needs to do to start for the Magpies.
Eddie Howe happy with Sandro Tonali playing so much for Italy
Ahead of Newcastle’s game against Manchester City, Eddie Howe has spoken to the media.
He was asked about how he felt about Tonali playing so much for Italy during the most recent international break.
“I’m not going to sit here and say we weren’t happy with his game management,” he said.
“I think it was fine. I was really pleased he came through it.
“When he came back we had to manage him to a degree. He was very tired and physically and mentally fatigued. It was a big two games for him. That was a big moment from Sandro’s perspective. He was under a lot of pressure but he’s handled himself really well.
“He’s trained really well this week. It looks like his energy is in a good place so I’m really pleased with him.”
What Sandro Tonali needs to do to start for Newcastle United
Howe was then asked what Tonali needs to do to start for Newcastle United.
“There’s no magic trick,” he said.
“It’s train well, and when you get a chance to play then play well. Do that consistently and, I’ll say the same to any player, you’ll end up in the team.”
Tonali should start against Manchester City
The last time Tonali started a Premier League game was October 8th 2023.
That should change against Manchester City on Saturday. We have predicted that Tonali will start for Newcastle, lining up in midfield alongside Joelinton and Bruno Guimaraes.
That feels like the best trio for this weekend’s game, as Newcastle prepare to face a Man City team that will not have Rodri.
The midfield battle is there to be won, and Tonali can give Newcastle the balance they need. His quality on the ball takes the pressure off of Bruno, while he has the physicality to match what Joelinton offers on the other side.
Hopefully that is the trio that Howe picks to take on the Premier League champions.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
