Sandro Tonali misses Newcastle training ahead of Benfica clash
Sandro Tonali was absent from Newcastle United training on Monday morning, raising fresh concerns about his fitness ahead of Tuesday night’s Champions League showdown with Benfica at St James’ Park.
The Magpies will aim to build on their emphatic 4-0 victory over Union Saint-Gilloise in their previous European outing as they return to continental action, looking to respond after a 2-1 Premier League defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion at the weekend.
Benfica arrive unbeaten in domestic competition but have suffered two losses in the Champions League group stage so far. The game will also mark Jose Mourinho’s first visit to St James’ Park since 2021, when he was in charge of Tottenham Hotspur.
Eddie Howe has named the same starting XI in Newcastle’s last three matches, but the tight schedule and growing fitness concerns could force changes this time around.
Tonali fitness worries
Tonali’s availability remains in doubt after missing Monday’s session. The Italian midfielder had only just returned to full training on Friday ahead of the Brighton game, having struggled with a knock picked up on international duty.
The 25-year-old started at the Amex Stadium but was substituted after 70 minutes, again appearing to be in discomfort. It follows a run of minor setbacks this month, including knocks sustained against Nottingham Forest and Israel while representing Italy.
Although Tonali has featured in all but one of Newcastle’s matches this season, his limited training time and recurring fitness issues mean Eddie Howe may be forced to manage his minutes carefully, especially with Jacob Ramsey now back in contention to strengthen midfield options.
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