What Newcastle sources have been saying about Sandro Tonali in training

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Newcastle United endured a topsy-turvy season last year but managed to end the campaign in seventh, which is certainly a commendable achievement, all things considered.

The Magpies had to contend with an unprecedented injury crisis which ruled several key players out of action for substantial periods.

Their marquee summer arrival Sandro Tonali was also forced to sit on the sidelines for the season after being suspended due to gambling.

The £55m signing from AC Milan only made 12 appearances for Newcastle before being handed a 10-month ban.

Tonali’s suspension is due to end this week and ahead of his return, sources at the club have revealed how he’s looking in training.

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Sandro Tonali now has the hardest shot at Newcastle

According to Mail Online journalist Craig Hope, Tonali’s 10-month period out on the sidelines has not been wasted.

The club used the time to identify areas of his game to improve and it’s thought his physical speed has been worked on extensively.

Because of additional gym work, it’s claimed Tonali now has the most powerful shot at the club and sources have even jokingly suggested he has the strongest handshake.

“He nearly breaks your hand,” one colleague said.

Newcastle chiefs have been eager to not publicise how impressed they’ve been with him behind closed doors.

They took learnings from how Brentford lionised Ivan Toney and opted to provide a sheltered environment for the Italian.

But, it’s understood they’ve been blown away by his technical ability and there have been numerous occasions when Howe has instinctively considered him for selection, forgetting he’s ineligible to play.

Sandro Tonali could feature vs Nottingham Forest

Tonali is expected to make his long-awaited return to action tomorrow, as Newcastle travel to the East Midlands to face Nottingham Forest in the Carabao Cup.

Howe’s unlikely to throw him straight into the action from the first whistle but perhaps he’ll come on around the hour mark.

It’s been a tough journey for Tonali but he’s now reached the light at the end of the tunnel and can focus on the football, again.