By Ewan Kingsbury

18th Oct, 2023 | 12:29pm

'Hung out to dry' - Fans react to 'disastrous' Sandro Tonali latest from Newcastle United

Fans have had their say after it emerged Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali is struggling with a gambling addiction following an investigation from the Italian FA.

Tonali, 23, was removed from the Italy senior squad last week after the initial allegations – and an investigation could see the midfielder receive a lengthy football ban.

Aston Villa’s Nicolo Zaniolo and Juventus star Nicolo Fagioli have also been named as part of the investigation – with the latter already handed a seven-month suspension by prosecutors in Italy.

As quoted by the Daily Mail (17 October), Tonali’s agent – Giuseppe Riso – has revealed the Newcastle man is fighting a “gambling problem”.

He thanked the Magpies for their support but claimed his client is “in shock, shaken and sad”.

As per Sky Sports News (18 October), the Italian FA have also confirmed the involved players will be offered support after their admissions.

Tonali, who cost Eddie Howe’s side a reported £55million in the summer window, has played 10 times for his new club – scoring once.

Some fans were quick to draw comparisons to banned Brentford striker Ivan Toney, with one believing he was “hung out to dry” by the English FA.

Responding to reports suggesting Tonali placed bets on AC Milan while employed by the Italian giants, one Newcastle fan claimed it was an “awful look”.

Meanwhile, another Magpies supporter claimed the midfielder is not likely to play for the club again – despite being under contract until 2028.

Another fan criticised Newcastle for not doing their due diligence before the Italian’s big-money arrival at St James’ Park, while another claimed the deal now seems “iffy”.

In other news, door opens for Newcastle to sign Man City star.