Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali is determined to propel his team back into the Champions League after scoring the decisive goal in a 2-1 victory over Brentford at St James' Park on Wednesday.

The win left the Magpies just a point behind fourth-placed Manchester City, with a game in hand, putting them in a strong position to challenge for a top-four finish.

Tonali’s stunning strike from a tight angle sealed the crucial three points and has revived Newcastle’s hopes of qualifying for Europe’s premier competition. Even finishing in fifth place could secure Champions League qualification this season, with five teams from the Premier League set to make the cut.

The 24-year-old Italy international, who joined Newcastle from AC Milan for £55 million in July 2023, expressed his delight after the match. "I am happy for the team and happy for this win," Tonali said. "It is three points that can help us come back to the Champions League. This is a massive win for us. We need to win every game at St James' Park."

Tonali also revealed his focus on securing a top-five finish to achieve their Champions League ambition. "Now we play only (to be among) the first five teams, for the Champions League. It is a little bit tough, but we are lucky because there are five teams in the Champions League this season."

The midfielder, who returned from a 10-month ban for breaching betting regulations while at Milan, has steadily become a vital figure in Newcastle’s squad. His recent performances contributed to the club’s success in winning the League Cup, ending a 56-year wait for a major trophy.

"It was a difficult season," Tonali admitted. "But now I am happy to come back free, come back happy. I am a new player. I just want to help this team and these players."

Manager Eddie Howe has praised Tonali’s technical ability, particularly his intelligence on the ball. "Technically, he's an outstanding player," Howe said. "Sandro, the beauty of him, he doesn't tend to try to do difficult things. Now the goal he scored (against Brentford) is incredibly difficult, but just in his general play, he makes good decisions, he doesn't over-complicate the game."

Howe continued, highlighting Tonali’s versatility and cleverness in his playing style. "Off both feet, he's a very, very clever player, a very intelligent player."