Sandro Tonali’s 10-month ban CONFIRMED despite Newcastle midfielder travelling with squad for Wolves clash

SANDRO TONALI will not be able to play for Newcastle against Wolves after having his ban ratified by Fifa.

The head of the Italian FA confirmed yesterday that the Magpies midfielder was suspended until next August.

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Tonali, 23, is alleged to have placed bets on matches involving AC Milan while he played for the Italian giants.

His ban has now been ratified and will start with an immediate effect.

This comes despite the midfielder travelling with the Magpies for the Premier League fixture against Wolves.

The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has submitted the request for Tonali's ban earlier today, and it was granted by Fifa.

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Toon boss Eddie Howe revealed that Newcastle had not had official word from Fifa before the team set off for the Midlands.

He had though that Tonali could have been available for selection as the club has not had "official confirmation as a football club".

Howe insisted that that delay had caused the team to be left in "limbo" while waiting for the confimation.

The £55million summer signing has also been ordered to complete an eight-month rehabilitation programme as part of his plea bargain.

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"Gambling addict" Tonali was found to have placed bets on his former clubs, Brescia and AC Milan.

He came off the bench during Wednesday's 1-0 Champions League defeat to Borussia Dortmund.

And Howe added: "He came on and did really well, and that's how he's trained.

"His mood has been good around the group and training ground, though obviously it's there in the background so I'm sure when he goes home there are difficult times. But as far as I can see, he's handled himself the right way."

News that Tonali was involved in a betting scandal alongside Aston Villa's Nicolo Zaniolo broke two weeks ago.

But the Italian authorities' failure to confirm the ban means Tonali was able to play against Crystal Palace and Borussia Dortmund.

The Italian became emotional as Newcastle fans gave him a standing ovation, showing support for Tonali after his agent admitted he has a "gambling addiction".

Newcastle could launch legal action against Milan for selling them Tonali in the summer.

They are also understood to be exploring the possibility of reducing his wages, and internal club talks have begun with lawyers.