Sandro Tonali hasn’t been at his best in recent matches.
A lot of talk about why this might be.
Maybe Sandro Tonali carrying an injury, possibly fatigue due to so many matches?
Wednesday night saw the Italy international starting as usual and having a similar first half to many of his teammates, not great the opening half hour but then improving in the later stages as half-time beckoned.
No surprise at half-time to see Malick Thiaw subbed off in favour of Sven Botman, the Germany international picking up an early yellow card. Then slipping to gift Leeds their first goal, then just before the break a very harsh penalty awarded as Thiaw was clearly fouled/pushed and as he fell to the ground his arm went instinctively out to break the fall.
So plenty of reasons why Eddie Howe would choose to take Malick Thiaw out of the firing line, especially now Botman is fit and available.
However, Sandro Tonali getting subbed off so early, a bit of a puzzling one.
The answer though might have well being revealed this morning…
Yes, at 8.53am, baby Leonardo born in a hospital in London that specialises in looking after women and children, with expert maternity care.
Massive congratulations to Sandro Tonali and his partner.
As we all know, expecting a baby is a pretty stressful time.
Maybe the recent generally below par Tonali performances have been simply life impacting on him. For those of you who have been through the stresses and strains that having a baby on the way can bring, then I’m sure you will empathise. I don’t think it exactly helps you excel at any job, never mind one where you are having to do so in front of 50k in the stadium and millions watching around the world.
Every chance that last night Sandro Tonali had to make a mad dash to London and it explains the early substitution.
Yes, sometimes there are things more important than Newcastle United.
All the very best to the couple and the new arrival.
Whilst selfishly as Newcastle United fans, here’s hoping that proud father Sandro Tonali now feels those stress levels lift and he can hit the heights on the pitch that we had taken for granted.