Sandro Tonali has responded to the FA's misconduct charge after being hit with a spate of new betting breaches. The Italian midfielder is working with the FA but must now await the verdict of an independent regulatory commission that will ultimately decide whether his current ban is extended.

As things stand, the £55million man will be available to play in Newcastle's third Premier League game of the season - something that both Eddie Howe and United are hopeful will remain the case.

There is a belief that despite the charges between 12 August 2023 and 12 October 2023 that the ban can be backdated and the punishment may already be served. However, his fate remains in the hands of the commission who will conclude whether this is the case or not.

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The FA stated on March 28: "It’s alleged that the Newcastle United midfielder breached FA Rule E8 50 times by placing bets on football matches between 12 August 2023 and 12 October 2023."

Howe stated publicly last month that he believes his player has been punished severely and been punished enough via the Italian Football Federation and FIFA. FA sources today confirmed that the case is still being dealt with after Newcastle responded in time to the latest round of charges by April 5.

Part of his eight months of rehabilitation included 16 trips to Italy to help others affected by illegal betting and addiction issues. And Tonali was missing from training earlier this week on one such excursion to his home country.

United stated last month: "Sandro continues to fully comply with relevant investigations and he retains the club's full support. Due to this ongoing process, Sandro and Newcastle United are unable to offer further comment at this time."

Tonali will hope that his suspension is not extended beyond August 27 and that he will be free to be involved in domestic action again in the first month of the new campaign. His FIFA ban has already resulted in him missing the European Championships in Germany.