Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has lauded Italy midfielder Sandro Tonali, after his impressive two-goal performance in their Carabao cup quarterfinal match against Brentford sealed a remarkable victory for the Magpies.
Tonali had not scored for his club side since August 2023 when he made his debut but scored twice at St James Park on Wednesday night to seal a comfortable victory as the Magpies marched on to the semifinals.
“He’s been here a while, but has had very little football. Nights like tonight will build connections with him and the supporters even stronger, I’m just really pleased for him on a personal level”, Eddie Howe said after the game.
“It was great to see Sandro score the two that he did. We are starting to see the best of him.”
The 24-year old who returned earlier in the season after being suspended for ten months for breaching betting rules has been subject of transfer speculation in recent months but his resurgent performance shut down any links of a move away from the club.
“He is showing all the qualities that we knew when we signed him. It is just about finding the right balance for him and the team”, he added.
A late consolation goal by Brentford striker Yoanne Wissa was not enough as Eddie Howe’s men overcame the Bees and marched on to the next stage as a second half strike from Fabian Schar alongside Tonali’s brace, sealed a well-deserved victory in front of their home fans.
The Magpies will learn about their opponents in the last four after Manchester United face Tottenham Hotspur in the final match of the last eight on Thursday night.
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