Newcastle make big Sandro Tonali decision despite fears ace could be banned for up to five years over gambling addiction

SANDRO TONALI remains in contention to play for Newcastle — despite fears he could get a FIVE-YEAR ban.

Tonali is being investigated over alleged illegal betting, with Italian reports claiming the midfielder admitted placing bets on ex-club AC Milan while there.

PANewcastle say Sandro Tonali and his family will ‘receive the club’s full support’[/caption]

Newcastle signed the Italy star from the Serie A giants for £55million in July.

In his home country, players gambling on football face bans of up to three years — but that can increase to five if offenders have bet on their own teams.

Widespread reports in Italy on Wednesday suggested Tonali, 23, has admitted placing bets on Milan matches during his time there.

Admitting the offence would likely halve any potential suspension, while working with authorities could reduce it further.

But Tonali still likely faces a lengthy ban if found guilty, which could be longer than the seven months handed down to his Italy team-mate Nicolo Fagioli.

Tonali and Aston Villa’s Nicolo Zaniolo, 24, were released from national team duty last week after being quizzed by police over gambling allegations.

Toon playmaker Tonali flew back on Wednesday from Turin — where he had been complying with the  investigators  — and is  eligible to play.

Newcastle, who host Crystal Palace on Saturday, said: “Sandro will continue to co-operate with all relevant authorities.

“He and his family will continue to receive the club’s full support.”

The verdict on Tonali, who has “a gambling addiction” according to his agent, could take at least a month to be delivered.