Sandro Tonali's agent releases defiant message in new interview with DAZN

Sandro Tonali’s agent Giuseppe Riso has defended his client, saying the midfielder "will pay for his mistakes, but not things he didn’t do".

Tonali received a very warm reception after the game against Crystal Palace on Sunday, with teammates and staff members pushing the 23-year-old towards the Gallowgate to receive support from fans.

Speaking to DAZN, Riso criticised the media who had ‘condemned’ the Italian ‘without knowing the reality’ and hopes the 'sanction will be correct' after reports of a potential 12-18 month ban:

“You saw the reaction by Newcastle fans… Sandro will pay for his mistakes — but not for things he didn’t do.

"Someone started to condemn Tonali in the media without knowing the reality. I just hope the sanction will be correct."

It’s expected that our £55m signing will be handed a lengthy suspension, of that there is little doubt, although reports in Italy suggest his ban could be shortened as the player's camp push for a plea bargain.

It’s a huge disappointment for everyone involved, but no one will be more disappointed than Tonali himself. It’s important that he knows how much the Toon army are backing him, with Saturday an emotional but powerful show of unity from staff, players and fans, who all rallied around the Italian.