Newcastle fans are looking forward to the new Premier League season for many reasons, including the imminent return of Sandro Tonali.
The Italian international changed AC Milan to Tyneside last summer in a deal worth £55m, but after an incredible debut in which he scored, Tonali was soon Banned for gambling offences.
The offences arose during his time in Italy and he pleaded guilty to all of them, earning him a ten-month ban and a strict rehabilitation period.
The FA later found the Italian guilty of placing another 50 bets while in England.
For this reason, he was given a suspended sentencemeaning that after his initial ban expires, Tonali will be free to return for the Magpies.
Read more about the Premier League
But Toon fans will still have to wait a bit before it returns.
When will Sandro Tonali return?
Tonali The ban began on October 26, 2023, which means it ends at the end of August 2024, specifically on Tuesday the 27th.
This means he will miss the Toon's opening two league games against Southampton and Bournemouth.
However, he will be available to play at St James' Park against Tottenham on Sunday 1 September.
Of course, he is unlikely to be fit to play because part of his ban prevented him from playing in friendly matches, but he was allowed to play in games behind closed doors.
Reports suggest he played in two of them over the summer to maintain some level of fitness.
Unlike Ivan ToneyTonali, who was banned from training with his Brentford team-mates during the period of his suspension for betting offences, was allowed to train.
This should have helped him adjust and adapt to what Eddie Howe wants from him.
Prior to his ban, Tonali made 11 further appearances for Newcastle after his debut and put in some average performances, while off the pitch he battled a gambling addiction.
But with that extra training and his gambling problem now under control, Tonali is expected to make a big impact for Newcastle this year.
Howe believes he will prove to be a welcome addition to the team.
Speaking ahead of the start of the Toon's campaign, Howe said: “He's come back really fit, focused – you can see a change in his demeanour because he feels closer to playing.
“I think he's ready to play and make a difference. He seems like a new signing.”
“You will certainly feel that you have goals to achieve.
“He came here with clear motivations and he is someone who wants to do very well.”