The numbers behind Tonali’s Newcastle return after 10-month ban | OneFootball

Sandro Tonali returned to competitive action for the first time in over 10 months during Newcastle’s victory on penalties over Nottingham Forest in the EFL Cup on Wednesday night. Here’s a look at the number’s behind the Italy international’s performance.

Tonali was selected as a starter on Wednesday night, on what was the first day that he was eligible following his suspension for prohibited gambling activity.

How Tonali played on Newcastle return

The former Milan and Brescia midfielder lasted 62 minutes on his first run-out of the calendar year. His side had taken an early lead through Joe Willock in the first minute, but conceded an equaliser to Jota Silva in the 50th.

It was not the most stand-out game of Tonali’s career by any stretch of the imagination, but it was a solid start after such a long period without first-team action.

Tonali had 33 touches of the ball during his hour-long run-out. During that time, he attempted 28 passes and completed 22 of them for a completion rate of 78%. He successfully completed the only long ball he attempted on the night. He did also lose possession on six occasions.

He also registered one of Newcastle’s seven shots on target with his attempt in the third minute.

Tonali made one clearance and one successful tackle while out of possession, but was also dribbled past on three occasions.

Tonali would go on to be replaced by local lad Sean Longstaff just after the hour mark. He will now be eligible to compete in all of Newcastle’s fixtures for the 2024-25 season, but it remains to be seen whether he will play against Tottenham in the Premier League on Sunday.