Replacements for Newcastle United player haven’t managed ‘a tenth’ of what he offered

Sandro Tonali is now ready to become a big asset for Newcastle United and Italy again.

He impressed during the international break, receiving major attention from the Italian press because of his performance against France and amazing back-heel assist.

As club football returns, Tonali will be ready to make an impact for Newcastle over a year after joining from AC Milan, who are struggling in Serie A so far.

Former Milan midfielder Massimo Ambrosini has spoken to Oggi Sport Notizie about the club selling the midfielder to Newcastle and he believes that the Rossoneri ‘regret’ the Italian’s exit.

He said: “Giving an answer now that only a few days have passed (this season) is complicated, but the answer that comes to mind at first glance is yes.

“From a technical point of view, Milan was able to replace him, but if we talk about soul, all those who were brought in didn’t do a tenth of what Sandro did.”

Quality wise, perhaps Milan have replaced Tonali with the impressive Tijjani Reijnders but the club’s fans and Ambrosini himself are referring to the lack of an emotional connection with the current Milan midfield.

Tonali was a Milan fan and had rejected Inter before joining the Rossoneri. The loss of that connection with an important midfield player is weighing more heavily every time Milan struggle, and especially after he’s done so well for Italy.