Sandro Tonali's agent releases statement after gambling accusations

Sandro Tonali's agent Giuseppe Riso has spoken out on the ongoing betting investigation, confirming the Newcastle United midfielder suffers with 'gambling addiction.'

It's not yet clear how the case will pan out, as Sky Italy reported yesterday that there's currently no evidence that involves the 23-year-old in sports betting and fraudulent activity beyond blackjack and poker.

However, Riso has revealed that he's 'fighting' to overcome the problem and is currently 'sad' and 'still in shock.' His agent then thanked Newcastle for their support and confirmed that the midfielder is back in training and 'could feature' in Saturday's Premier League meeting with Crystal Palace at St James' Park.

Here's what he's had to say:

“Sandro suffers of gambling addiction. He’s fighting to avoid that and I’m sure he will win this difficult game. He’s sad, still in shock.

"I was very pleased with President (of the Italian football federation) Gravina’s speech, it is important for these guys not to feel alone. Sandro is playing the most important game right now, the one against gambling, and he will win this one too.

"Right now he’s a bit in shock, I hope this game will save Sandro’s life and be an example for other boys too. He is shaken, he is sad. He has realised that he has to face this problem in a strong and very determined way.

"I thank Newcastle because they showed great closeness straight away, he’s training at the moment and he might even play on Saturday.”