Nicolo Zaniolo has been named in the starting line-up for Aston Villa despite an ongoing investigation into illegal gambling.
The on-loan Aston Villa is one of three players that have been named in the investigation that is being undertaken by prosecutors, alongside Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali and Nicolo Fagioli of Juventus – who has since been banned for seven months.
Villa confirmed that Zaniolo is assisting the investigation and has met with senior club officials and had been training as normal, and he started in midfield for Villa against West Ham on Sunday.
The West Ham game was the Italian’s 10th appearance for the club after he arrived in the summer on a loan deal from Galatasaray.
More than 40 players are suspected of being involved in the betting scandal that has rocked Italian football.
Nicolo Zaniolo (right) started for Aston Villa against West Ham on Sunday despite an ongoing investigation into illegal gambling
The Italian midfielder has been cooperating in investigations but could have been playing his last game for the club
The 24-year-old received a positive reception from the fans at Villa Park as calls come for more support to be given to those suffering from gambling addictions.
Tonali received a hero’s reception at St James’ Park on Saturday when he came on as a substitute for Newcastle against Crystal Palace, and undertook a lap of honour at full time.
Eddie Howe revealed it was his idea to send Tonali in front of his team-mates on the post-match lap of honour, as the 24-year-old awaits news of a lengthy ban for illegal gambling.
Sandro Tonali is another player who has been named in the investigation and faces a lengthy ban from football
The Italian led a lap of honour from the Newcastle players after the beat Crystal Palace on Saturday afternoon
If found guilty, the 23-year-old faces at least a one-year suspension from Italian authorities and that could arrive as soon as this week, meaning the 4-0 win over Crystal Palace could be his last game at St James’ Park until next season.
Zaniolo’s appearance against West Ham could also be his last match, potentially for the club due to his stay only being temporary anyway.
Fagioli, Zaniolo, and Tonali all had their phones and devices confiscated by police while the latter two had to leave Italy’s international training camp during the international break to face questions.
Tonali’s lawyers will reportedly travel to Rome on Monday in order to negotiate a plea bargain after the midfielder ‘admitted to gambling on football matches’.