Italy and Newcastle United can breathe easy. After a tense 24 hours, Sandro Tonali has been cleared to take part in the upcoming World Cup playoff campaign. This is a huge relief for Gennaro Gattuso and especially the Italian staff.
Tonali was sent off during Newcastle's Champions League clash with Barcelona on Wednesday evening, sparking immediate concern in the national team camp.
The Italian midfielder started the game alongside Jacob Ramsey and Joelinton but was removed after 55 minutes due to an awkward fall on the touchline. Reports then said that due to the problem he would undergo an MRI scan today.
Tests bring good news
According to Gianluca Di MarzioThursday's medical tests gave the results Italy had hoped for. He suffered only minor swelling; There is no structural damage.
That means there is no risk of him missing the World Cup play-off semi-final against Northern Ireland. The Newcastle midfielder should also be fully fit for a potential playoff final.
Di Marzio reports that the midfielder's condition is 'nothing serious', eliminating any fears of a last-minute midfield crisis.
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe had initially labeled Tonali "doubtful" for Sunday's derby against Sunderland. The plan is to assess him day by day, with Italy hoping to rest him before international duty.
Gravina: 'There is reason for optimism'
Italian Football Federation president Gabriele Gravina also commented on Tonali's injury after speaking to the midfielder.
"I talked to him on the phone with the coach and our doctor." He said.
"He is more relaxed than when he left the pitch. There is some concern, but it is moderate. Today's tests have provided reassurance. He needs to recover, and we will do so with all the means at our disposal. There is reason for optimism."
That optimism has now been confirmed. Today the medical examination has revealed no significant damage, due to which he will be available for the international break.
