Eddie Howe and Anthony Gordon praised the Newcastle United fans for backing Sandro Tonali, who faces a lengthy ban from football.
The Italian is expected to receive a one-year suspension for betting on matches while he was at AC Milan, before joining the Magpies for £52 million in the summer.
Despite the charges levelled at Tonali, he is still eligible to play for Newcastle until a decision is made by the Italian Federation in Turin on what punishment he should face. He came off the bench in the 69th minute of Saturday’s 4-0 win over Crystal Palace to applause from the St James’ Park crowd.
“Absolute class from our supporters today,” How told BBC Match of the Day after the game. “They supported and backed him and Sandro will leave here heartened by the reaction.”
Gordon also praised the Newcastle faithful for the support they showed Tonali. “The fans today when Sandro came on and even before that were incredible,” he told MOTD.
“They always support their players. We can only support him, we understand it is a very difficult time for him and his family.”
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