Eddie Howe has addressed the recent investigation concerning Sandro Tonali's alleged involvement in illegal betting. This investigation was announced by the Italian prosecutor's office and the Italian football federation. It marks the first time that Eddie Howe has publicly spoken about this matter.
As reported by talkSPORT, he said: "I got a phonecall from Dan Ashworth, I can't remember what day it was but it was during the international break."
"A total surprise to me, to him, to everybody. These are the things in this job and this role that can happen. As I said my immediate process was for Sandro and making sure he was ok. A very difficult period."
"There's so many different things in people's personal lives that can happen. Footballers are human beings and to look at them anything other is wrong."
"We all have vulnerabilities, weaknesses, things that happen in our lives that can be difficult so the main thing is if we identify it, support the player as we'll always do, try and help them get to their best level on the football pitch."
"For me it's absolutely crucial. It's the most important part of this whole incident is Sandro and his welfare. It's very easy for people to forget how young he is and the changes he's had in his life coming from Italy to England. That's hard enough to deal with and now he has this situation."
"We feel as a football club, straight away, it was throw our arms around him and protect him, give him the love and support that he needs to find solutions to the problems he's had. That's what we endeavour to do. We've had a lot of conversations, and a lot of communication with him and his family."
"It's not just Sandro it's the people who are important to him as well. It's been a big effort from us and he's handled himself superbly well. He's been obviously emotional but has handled himself with respect and dignity."
