Newcastle United is facing the new Premier League season with a mix of optimism and caution. While manager Eddie Howe acknowledges the absence of key striker Callum Wilson, who underwent minor back surgery, he’s confident the squad is in a better place compared to last season’s injury struggles.
‘I think we are definitely in a better position than we were for the majority of last season, certainly to the back end of last season,’ Howe stated in a press conference on Friday. ‘We have got (goalkeeper) Nick Pope back fully fit — I’ll touch wood with all of these because we have still got training before we play. (Midfielder) Joe Willock is in a lot better place. I wouldn’t say he’s 100% match fit; he’s had two games, trained well and is certainly on the road to being the Joe Willock we all know and love. Several others are in a lot better physical condition than last year.’
Newcastle is also expecting the return of Italian midfielder Sandro Tonali, who is set to be eligible from August 28th after serving a ban for breaking betting rules. Tonali’s presence will be a welcome boost for the Magpies, who finished seventh last season, missing out on European competition despite a strong Champions League campaign the previous year.
‘He has handled himself really well in this period; I am sure he has had some hard days. He has trained really well and has been a great teammate. I know how focused and excited he is for his return,’ Howe said of Tonali.
Tonali, who scored on his league debut for Newcastle last season, was banned by the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) and the English Football Association (FA) for contravening betting regulations. Since then, he has attended treatment sessions for problem gamblers and has been actively involved in raising awareness about the dangers of gambling addiction.
While the absence of Wilson is a blow, Newcastle’s overall injury situation seems to be improving, and the imminent return of Tonali further strengthens the team’s prospects for the upcoming Premier League season.
