Howe issues Sandro Tonali update and explains surprise goalkeeper call
Eddie Howe has issued an update on the status of Sandro Tonali, who started from the bench against Nottingham Forest, and his decision to drop Martin Dubravka and recall Nick Pope.
The Italian was deemed not fit to start for a Champions League-chasing Newcastle that almost threw away a 4-1 lead after a lackadaisical second half performance, but ultimately moved within three points of Forest.
Lewis Miley and Joe Willock both started alongside Bruno Guimaraes, with Joelinton still sidelined with a knee injury. Teenage talent Miley has received heavy praise after a commanding performance in the midfield maestro’s initial absence, replacing Willock with 20 minutes to play.
Tonali situation explained
Tonali has an issue with his hamstring deemed not worth taking the risk of aggravating with a start ahead of an important few weeks in the Magpies’ season.
“He had a hamstring problem in the week, he missed a couple of days training,” said Howe. “I didn’t really want to risk him today but with the second half as it was we felt we needed his legs in midfield.”
“He said he felt OK to play. It was a reluctant sub but I thought he did OK when he came on and touch wood he’s OK.”
Newcastle have a trip to Anfield on Wednesday before Brighton in the FA Cup, which Joelinton could return in time for, before West Ham away in our final game that precedes the Carabao Cup final at Wembley.
Howe is right to be cautious with Tonali, and the midfield on the day did more than enough to justify their selections. Willock exploited space left by Forest during a shell shocked 11 minute spell in which we scored four, but he wasn’t the highlight of the midfield.
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