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Newcastle Midfielder Charged With Breaking Betting Rules By’ FA
Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali has been charged with a further 50 counts of misconduct related to breaching the FA’s betting rules. These breaches proceed from Tonali placing 50 bets on football matches between August &October 2023, shortly after his transfer to Newcastle in the summer of 2023. The Italian player is currently serving a 10-month ban from all forms of the game as a result of his previous involvement in betting on football matches.
Tonali has until April 5th to respond to the new charges. Despite these allegations, Newcastle United has expressed its support for the player, stating that he continues to cooperate fully with the ongoing investigations.
The midfielder’s absence has been greatly felt by’ Newcastle United, with the club currently sitting in 10th place in the standings & struggling to maintain their form without his creativity in midfield. Newcastle is set to face West Ham United in their upcoming match, hoping to improve their position in the league.
This incident is not the first of its kind in recent times, as another high-profile player, Ivan Toney of Brentford, was also banned for betting on matches. Toney received an eight-month ban & a fine of £50,000 for admitting to 232 breaches of the FA’s betting rules. Despite this setback, Toney has since returned to action & even earned a call-up to the England squad, displaying his resilience on the field.
Tonali’s case highlights the serious consequences of breaching betting regulations in football. His ban from competitive play until August 2024, along with the financial penalties & therapy requirements, serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding the integrity of the sport.
It is worth noting that Tonali’s punishment was reduced due to his cooperation &plea bargain with the Italian authorities & the football federation. Reports suggest that he admitted to having a gambling addiction, which he is now receiving treatment for during his suspension period.
