Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali has suffered a hamstring injury and must be eased through the Magpies’ Champions League challenge.
The Italy international was only afforded a second half cameo against Nottingham Forest and played only a bit-part role in the 4-3 victory at St James’ Park. Tonali did not train for parts of this week as Eddie Howe turned to youngster Lewis Miley in midfield.
Howe revealed after the game: “He had a hamstring problem in the week and missed training. I did not want to risk him today. It was a reluctant sub from me, but he did well.”
Yet the boss was delighted with the performance from teenager Miley, saying: “A really good performance from Lewis [Miley]. He finished his goal really well. He can be really pleased, he’s been developing really well.”
Howe admitted that Newcastle had gone into “protection mode” in the second half hence the late collapse that set up a tense finish. The game ended with Forest piling on the pressure with two late goals and almost grabbing a draw.
The Newcastle head coach said: “I have to remind myself that we won the game and ultimately that’s the most important thing. In the first half we were brilliant, outstanding, second half was a tough watch. But we got over the line and that’s the main thing.”
“I don’t know whether it was because we were protecting the lead and that subconsciously affects our performance, but for me it’s a case of watching it back and highlighting the areas we need to get better.”
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