Eddie Howe says Newcastle star has ‘points to prove’ after long absence

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe says Sandro Tonali is ‘really fit and focused’ ahead of his highly anticipated return to competitive action.

The Italy international has been banned from football since October 2023 due to betting offences, although he has been allowed to train with the Newcastle first team during that time.

Tonali’s ban expires at the end of August, making him eligible for Newcastle’s home clash against Tottenham Hotspur on the 31st. If he plays, it’ll be the 24-year-old’s...