Ivan Toney Returns In England Squad Months After Ban Over Betting Rule Violation

Brentford striker Ivan Toney is set to make a comeback to the England squad after serving an eight-month ban for breaching gambling rules.

The Football Association handed down the ban last May, along with a fine of £50,000, for 232 breaches of the FA’s gambling regulations spanning from 2017 to 2021.

Toney, who admitted to struggling with a gambling addiction, made a strong return to action for Brentford in January, scoring four goals in his first five games back but has not found the net in his last four matches.

Despite his ban and_ the challenges he faced, Toney’s talent and_ determination have earned him a spot in Gareth Southgate’s squad for the pre-Euro 2024 friendlies against Brazil and_ Belgium.

Gareth Southgate’s decision to include Toney, along with inclusions like Jarrad Branthwaite and_ Joe Gomez, highlights the manager’s willingness to give players opportunities based on merit and_ form. While established like Harry Kane retain their spot in the squad, Toney’s presence a fresh energy to the team’s attacking options.

There’s no room for Kalvin Phillips, who misses out on the final international break of the season. Speaking to the media following his squad announcement, Southgate admitted the midfielder hadn’t played to the right level to be included.

“Unfortunately, his form just hasn’t been good enough,” said the England manager.

“I’ve spoken to him about that, he understands. He has all the attributes to force his way back in and_ we’re keen for him to do that.”