SO SAD: A top footballer in Ipswich Town has been suspended...

Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali could be involved in Saturday’s Premier League clash with Wolves despite being handed a 10-month ban.

Following his plea deal as part of an investigation into illicit betting activities, the 23-year-old was suspended until the start of the next season, as confirmed by the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) on Thursday.

Newcastle claims they have not received official notice of the ban, which is pending FIFA’s ratification. As of right now, the summer acquisition from AC Milan, who cost £55 million, was scheduled to travel to the Midlands on Friday afternoon along with the rest of the team.

We have heard the announcement and the news, but as of right now, the Italian authorities have not given us any information, so we are essentially waiting for that formal confirmation to surface.

Howe responded, “Yes, I think there is a high chance again that he could be available for us,” when asked if there was a chance the Italy international would play at Molineux.

I still think there are a few things that have to happen before the ban is imposed, so let’s see.”

In addition, the Italy international was fined twenty thousand euros and ordered to participate in a series of public appearances and therapy sessions for eight months.

During this month’s international break, Tonali became the focus of an investigation into possible betting rule violations. It was claimed that during his time with Brescia and Milan, he placed bets on matches featuring his former teams.

The Magpies have promised to assist Tonali in his efforts to overcome his gambling addiction, according to Agent Giuseppe Riso. However, as things stand, Tonali is still available for selection at a time when Howe’s midfield options are limited due to a back injury that will keep Elliot Anderson out of action for eight weeks and Jacob Murphy awaiting a decision regarding the dislocated shoulder he sustained against Dortmund.

Due to a relapse of a groin injury, the Magpies’ manager, who will be without striker Alexander Isak, stated: “At the moment, he is travelling with us.” We’re preparing as if he’s fit and available to play.

Newcastle striker Alexander Isak suffered a recurrence of a groin injury during Wednesday night’s 1-0 Champions League defeat by Borussia Dortmund (Richard Sellers/PA)

Longer term, Howe is aware that Tonali will need to be carefully managed during a challenging period of time away from the field (the club is unsure if he will be able to train with his teammates).

He stated: “Sandro is in a difficult situation, and if he is ultimately banned for that length of time, he will undoubtedly have really difficult moments during that time. He will also initially be the focus of a lot of attention.

“However, there will undoubtedly be a time when it is just training—wherever he trains—and no game, and that will be challenging for any player to get used to, especially when they are healthy and ready to play.

“The communication between us, me and my coaching staff and him, is going to be hugely important.”