Eddie Howe reveals Sandro Tonali groin doubt before Sunderland derby after Barcelona defeat | OneFootball

Eddie Howe faces a fresh injury worry before Sunday’s Tyne-Wear derby at St James’ Park, with Sandro Tonali a doubt after Newcastle’s 7-2 Champions League loss to Barcelona. According to Sunderland Echo, Howe said Tonali has a groin problem that could keep him out.

The Italian started alongside Jacob Ramsey and Joelinton and impressed in the opening period, but he did not reappear after the interval. Newcastle fell behind early yet twice hit back through an Anthony Elanga brace, before Barcelona surged away before the break and controlled the second half to inflict the club’s heaviest European defeat.

Howe said Tonali was among Newcastle’s best in the first half and that his absence told after the break.

Tonali’s potential absence would add to a lengthy list, with Bruno Guimaraes, Lewis Miley, Fabian Schar and Emil Krafth already out. The head coach’s options are particularly thin in midfield.

Newcastle return to the Premier League in ninth, seven points off the Champions League places with eight games to play after exits from all three cups. Reflecting on the defeat, Howe said defending fell short of the recent display at Chelsea, citing slips, a set-piece concession and a penalty, and admitted the team’s energy dipped after the break, with a switch to a deeper block offering little relief.

Source: Sunderland Echo