The Magpies are preparing to strengthen education around gambling at the club, to help players and staff. This comes after Sandro Tonali was handed a 10-month ban for a series of gambling breaches during his time in Italy.
The Italian will not only serve a lengthy ban, but he will also undergo a ‘rehabilitation period’ that is set to extend his break from football for a further eight months.
Newcastle manager, Eddie Howe, has been keen to use this situation as a chance to highlight the need for further emphasis to be put on gambling education for athletes.
Howe said: “In the academies, getting that information through to the players and developing good habits in your life is so important as a professional athlete, so you can give yourself the best chance of having the longest career possible. As a club, it’s our duty to do that.”
Tonali’s personal manager, Giuseppe Riso, has revealed that the Italian international has a genuine gambling addiction and will take the required steps to recover.
Newcastle are set to become the first club in the United Kingdom to completely stop their players and staff from placing any stakes on sporting events.
Professional football players in England have been allowed to bet on sporting events outside of their own and the Professional Football Association have highlighted the issues this brings.
The PFA statement read: “Studies have shown professional athletes are more likely to develop problem gambling habits, so think carefully before placing any bets.”
Kieran Trippier, Newcastle’s current club captain, has also experienced gambling issues in the past, as he was alleged to offer friends information on his career.
One of the biggest stories in the Premier League has been the situation regarding England player, Ivan Toney, who was handed an 8-month ban for 232 betting breaches – showing the need for education within the sport.
