EDDIE HOWE can sense a change in Sandro Tonali as the Italian’s suspension for breaching betting regulations nears its end – and is confident the Newcastle United midfielder will be able to make a major impact next season.

Tonali was banned for ten months after admitting to breaking betting rules, but will be able to return to action in the Magpies’ third game of the new campaign, when they host Tottenham on Sunday, September 1.

He cannot play in any of Newcastle’s pre-season matches, with the terms of his ban from the Italian FA also preventing him from appearing in behind-closed-doors games overseen by a registered referee.

The midfielder is able to play in training-ground games that do not involve a match official, and appeared in a practice match against Burnley earlier this week. Newcastle are understood to have lined up a similar game against Leeds United for later in the summer.

It remains to be seen whether Tonali is part of the squad that heads to Japan next week – he will not be able to play in either of Newcastle’s matches against Urawa Red Diamonds and Yokohama F Marinos – but with the end of his ban approaching, Howe can sense a shift in his general mood.

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“He’s come back really fit and focused,” said the Newcastle head coach. “You can see a change in his demeanour - there is definitely a change in him in terms of feeling as he is closer to playing. It is very difficult when you have that stretch ahead of you and you are not going to play competitively for such a length of time.

“He now looks ready to play and ready to make a difference, he does feel like an absolute new signing and somebody we desperately missed last year.

“He will feel like he's got points to prove and objectives to hit. He came here with very clear motivations to be successful. He is a deep thinker and someone who wants to do very well. I have no doubt he will.”