Eddie Howe says Sandro Tonali a doubt after 7-2 Barcelona defeat before Sunderland derby | OneFootball

Newcastle United face a fresh setback before Sunday’s Tyne-Wear derby at St James’s Park, with Sandro Tonali a doubt after a 7-2 Champions League defeat at Barcelona. Eddie Howe said the midfielder has a groin problem.

The Italian started in midfield but did not return after the interval. Newcastle twice levelled in the first half after an early setback, yet Barcelona pulled clear before the break and controlled the second period to inflict the club’s heaviest European loss.

Howe said Tonali’s absence told after half-time and he was critical of the defending. He pointed to an opener following two slips, a concession from a set piece and a penalty, despite what he viewed as an outstanding first-half display.

Losing Tonali would further stretch a depleted squad, with Bruno Guimaraes, Lewis Miley, Fabian Schar and Emil Krafth already unavailable, particularly affecting midfield options.

Newcastle return to Premier League action in ninth, seven points off the Champions League places, with eight games remaining after exits from all three cups. Focus now turns to Sunderland’s visit on Sunday.

Source: Sunderland Echo