'Very talented': Alan Shearer makes exciting prediction about Sandro Tonali at Newcastle
Yesterday at 03:15 AM
After Newcastle United sold Elliot Anderson this summer, a situation that is still questioned today, Sandro Tonali returned from his ban at a very opportune time.
Newcastle have recovered both Tonali and Joe Willock recently, two midfielders who should prove invaluable to Eddie Howe across the season.
Since his return, Tonali has started just once for Howe in the EFL Cup against Nottingham Forest, playing 62 minutes in the tie which was won on penalties.
The Italian has then appeared as a substitute twice in the Premier League, coming on to make a considerable difference in his 45 minutes against Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Tonali impressed for Italy as well over the break, a player who is definitely popular on Tyneside – Newcastle fans are now so desperate to see him succeed.
Eddie Howe told that ‘very talented’ Sandro Tonali needs to start at Newcastle
Speaking on 'The Rest Is Football' podcast, Alan Shearer was asked if he agreed that Tonali had the ability to be one of the best midfielders in the Premier League.
And whilst Shearer stopped short of making such a bold claim, he does believe that Howe will now be forced to start the Italian, especially given the exciting cameo mentioned.
Shearer said: "Yeah I mean, you can imagine how tough it's been for him. So I think he's a great option for Eddie to have.
"He hasn't started him other than in the cup game against Forest. So in a couple of the league games he's been on the bench, but he did come on at the weekend and made a difference at half time.
"So whether that forces Eddie's hand to start him now, probably actually. Yeah, but he's a very talented player.
"There's no doubt about it and it'd be a good addition to get him back into the Newcastle squad."
William Osula needs more time at St James’ Park
Of course, another interesting moment from the win against Wolves was Howe's decision not to sub on William Osula when Alexander Isak needed to come off.
The Newcastle manager instead opted to introduce Harvey Barnes with Anthony Gordon moving to a central role.
Since, Newcastle insiders have been explaining Osula's situation after his move from Sheffield United this summer.
Newcastle will be without Callum Wilson until at least next month, meaning supporters will be keeping their fingers crossed that Isak is fine to play moving forward.
It feels like it's all heading in the right direction for Newcastle right now, who still have 10 points from four games, despite not really finding their groove just yet.
