Micah Richards is having real doubts about 23-year-old Newcastle signing

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For the first time since Antonio Barreca was on Tyneside, Newcastle United have an Italian in their ranks.

The Magpies have spent £55million to bring Sandro Tonali to the club, making him their second most expensive signing ever.

Eddie Howe started the summer dreaming of a marquee midfielder arriving at St James’ Park, and he has got his wish in the 23-year-old, who has been dubbed ‘Sandy’ by his teammates.

Tonali really impressed during his first appearance against Rangers, but expectations have dipped since then. Toon staff have reportedly been cautious about him since the trip to America, as he prepares for his first ever season in English football.

While it might take him some time to settle in, his talent is clear for all to see.

However, former Manchester City defender Micah Richards has one concern about Tonali.

Micah Richards is worried about Sandro Tonali

Richards has addressed his concerns about Tonali during the first ever episode of the ‘The Rest Is Football’ podcast alongside Gary Lineker and Toon legend Alan Shearer.

“I just don’t know – the Premier League different isn’t it?,” he said.

“He’s got a lovely touch, and lovely technique and he can play the ball but it’s just that physicality, that’s all.”

It will take Tonali time at Newcastle

Richards’ concerns about Tonali are understandable, and are probably based upon that clip of him hitting the deck after a coming together with Emi Buendia during the Premier League Summer Series.

It might take him some time to become acclimatised to English football, but Newcastle can afford to give him time. Howe has great strength in depth in midfield, which means he can take his time introducing Tonali, rather than throwing him in at the deep end.

It would be quite surprising to see him start next weekend against Aston Villa, and it would probably be sensible for Howe to leave him out. He took his time introducing Bruno Guimaraes, and should do the same with Tonali.

But his ability in possession is already clear, and it is obvious that he is going to make a real difference to the Newcastle midfield once he is fully up to speed.

Richards’ worry is a fair one, but it will not be one that defines Tonali’s Toon career.