Sandro Tonali likely to play against Wolves despite 10-month ban. Newcastle boss Eddie Howe gave this reason

Though he has received a 10-month ban from football, Newcastle's Sandro Tonali is most likely to play against
Wolves on Saturday. Manager Eddie Howe said that the club is in "limbo" as it awaits confirmation of the ban. The Italian Football Federation banned the 23-year-old player on Thursday for breaching betting rules. Talking to BBC, Howe said, "We've heard the news, the statement, but we haven't had anything from the Italian authorities at the moment."

UEFA, FIFA yet to confirm ban

He said further, "I think there's a high chance again that he could be available for us. I still think there are a few things that have to happen before the ban is imposed, so let's see." His statement is significant as the governing bodies Uefa and Fifa are yet to confirm the ban.

FIGC bans Sandro Tonali for 10 months

Delivering its verdict in the illegal betting case, the FIGC said that the Italy midfielder had breached a rule that prohibits players from placing bets on football events organized by FIGC, UEFA and FIFA. It has fined him EUR 20,000 or £17,380. It also said that the federal prosecutor and Tonali had agreed to an 18-month disqualification. But eight months of the punishment will be commuted to "a therapeutic plan" to help "recovery from gambling addiction".

Magpies' second-most expensive player

Tonali became the Magpies' second-most expensive signing when he joined Newcastle from AC Milan in July for £55million. Reacting to the ban, Howe said that there's frustration and disappointment that Newcastle will not have a quality player for a period of time. He also said that it is a part of life and a valuable lesson.

FAQs:

Why has Sandro Tonali been banned?
The Italian Football Federation banned the 23-year-old player on Thursday for breaching betting rules.

What punishment has been given to Sandro Tonali?
Italian Football Federation has banned Sandro Tonali for 18 months and fined him EUR 20,000 or £17,380. But eight months of the punishment will be commuted to "a therapeutic plan" to help "recovery from gambling addiction".