Newcastle: Sandro Tonali singled out by national media after Italy suffer ‘third apocalypse’ vs Bosnia
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He has been a vital cog in Newcastle’s efforts this season, and he has escaped any criticism following the debacle surrounding his national team in midweek. ⚽ Newcastle Matchday ⚽ Team news, line-ups, expert previews and tactical analysis for every Newcastle United fixture. VISIT THE NEWCASTLE MATCH HUB MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Sandro Tonali ‘cannot be ignored’ for ItalyTonali’s influence has grown significantly at Newcastle in recent years, to the point where he is now one of the first names on the teamsheet for Eddie Howe each week.
StatsTonali TotalTouches53Accurate Passes30/38 (79%)Interceptions1Recoveries4Duels Won5/8 (62.5%)Tonali’s stats in Italy’s loss vs Bosnia.The 25-year-old appeared to handle the pressure of such a big occasion well, and he was also the only Italian player to step up and find the net in the shootout. Tutto Sport took a similarly sympathetic view towards the midfielder’s display, as they noted that his performance dipped from the semi-final against Northern Ireland, but also added that he put “so much heart” into the game.Tonali display doesn’t help Newcastle causeFormer Manchester City financial advisor Stefan Borson recently told Football Insider that Newcastle could accept £80million for Tonali this summer to ensure that they comply with UEFA’s financial rules.The Magpies are facing a battle to keep hold of their star man this summer, with both Manchester clubs taking an interest in him, while Juventus are also leading the charge to sign him in Italy.
Howe will have been delighted to see his player perform well on the international stage once again, but with a long-term view, the fact that he has emerged with credit arguably doesn’t help Newcastle’s cause.Tonali’s reputation will likely increase again as a result of the sympathy that he has received following his country’s failure, as it has been plain to see the level of heart and spirit that he plays with. That will surely only drive Serie A interest for his signature up even further, which certainly will not help Newcastle’s bid to keep hold of him for next season.