'He is focused and excited' - Howe on Tonali's return

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe says Sandro Tonali is "excited" for his return to action, as the midfielder approaches the end of his 10-month ban for breaching betting rules on 28 August.

"He has handled himself really well in this period, I am sure he has had some hard days," said Howe.

"He has trained really well and has been a great team-mate. I know how focused and excited he is for his return.

"Another huge thing for me to say is thank you to the Newcastle United fans. The way they've looked after him and for how they've dealt with him socially.

"I think it's been an incredible response and that will only help him when he returns."