Gordon emotional reaction to Sandro Tonali’s emphatic three-word message after 3-1 Newcastle United win

Sandro Tonali delivered another stellar performance as Newcastle United secured a commanding victory over Southampton. The result marked Newcastle’s 10th win in their last 11 matches across all competitions, showcasing the team’s resilience and determination to remain among the Premier League’s top contenders.

Eddie Howe’s side showed no signs of letting their previous loss to Bournemouth dampen their momentum as they faced a relegation-threatened Saints team on the South Coast.

Tonali played a pivotal role, scoring his first Premier League goal since debuting with a strike against Aston Villa in August 2023. His second-half goal came from a perfectly executed flick-on by Anthony Gordon, which left the Italian midfielder with a clear path to goal.

With composure and precision, Tonali side-footed the ball into the net, contributing to Newcastle’s impressive 12th league victory of the season. His goal added to Alexander Isak’s brace, which brought the Swedish striker’s Premier League tally to 17 goals for the campaign.

The victory against Southampton not only solidified Newcastle’s position in the league but also provided the team with the momentum to aim for another win in their upcoming match against Fulham.

Tonali’s influence on the pitch, combined with his ability to form effective partnerships with teammates, has made him a key figure in Newcastle’s push for success this season.

Following the match, Tonali shared his thoughts on social media, posting a succinct yet impactful message: “WE AMBITIOUS NOW.” This statement underscored the team’s growing confidence and determination to achieve significant milestones this season.

Tonali’s words reflect the collective mindset of a squad that has set its sights on securing a European spot, ideally a Champions League qualification. Such an achievement would not only boost the team’s profile but also provide a substantial financial windfall.

Anthony Gordon, who assisted Tonali’s goal, responded to the post with a flame emoji, emphasizing the camaraderie and mutual support among the players. Gordon’s assist marked his fifth of the league season, further highlighting his crucial contributions to Newcastle’s attacking prowess. Tonali’s ability to link up with other players, including Bruno Guimaraes, has been instrumental in enhancing the team’s fluidity and effectiveness on the field.

Tonali’s performance against Southampton showcased his all-around capabilities. In just 65 touches, he completed 84% of his passes, including five into the final third, demonstrating his vision and creativity.

Defensively, Tonali was equally impressive, winning four tackles, making 10 defensive actions, and recovering the ball five times. He also won 10 of his 17 duels and made a crucial block, earning him praise from fans who frequently refer to him as a “midfield maestro.”

The 24-year-old’s contributions since returning from his 10-month ban in August have been invaluable. Howe’s decision to position him in a deeper midfield role has allowed Tonali to thrive, utilizing his defensive instincts while maintaining his ability to influence the game offensively. Signed for £55 million in 2023, Tonali has proven his worth, delivering performances that justify his price tag and reinforce his importance to the team.

Newcastle’s ambitions extend beyond league success, as they also remain in contention for the Carabao Cup. The team is just one match away from securing a spot in the final, with a crucial second-leg encounter against Arsenal on the horizon.

A strong result in that match could bring Newcastle closer to ending their long wait for a major trophy, with their last significant silverware dating back to 1969.

Tonali’s integration into Newcastle’s squad has been seamless, with his technical skill, tactical intelligence, and work ethic earning him admiration from fans and teammates alike. His ability to perform under pressure and contribute in key moments highlights his value to a team that continues to grow in stature under Howe’s guidance.

The victory over Southampton not only secured three points but also reinforced the team’s belief in their ability to achieve greatness this season. Tonali’s role in this journey has been pivotal, and his performance against the Saints is yet another testament to his quality. As Newcastle continues to compete on multiple fronts, the contributions of players like Tonali will remain essential in realizing their lofty ambitions.