Ivan Toney’s son flies to England to watch World Cup (Image: Eddie Keogh/The FA)
Ivan Toney insists he needs “more than just a penalty” to qualify for the World Cup. The former Brentford striker boasts an exceptional record from 12 yards and has perfected a remarkable no-look technique, making him a valuable asset in the shoot-out.
That was no doubt a factor in England manager Thomas Tuchel’s thinking when selecting Al Ahly’s striker from the Saudi Professional League. However, Toney believes he deserves to be seen as more than just a penalty specialist and is keen for the opportunity to come off the bench and contribute to the team.
The England striker said, “I’d like to think I didn’t just take the penalty. I’d like to think I’m a good player too.”
“I think I can contribute more to the game. But if I had to play just one minute and get a penalty, I would never say no. I’m here to help the team.”
“You have to be ready to take your chances because you have guys that are playing. But I’m here now and I’ve done the right thing and I hope I get my chance now.”
“Regardless of where you are in the world, you still have a lot to progress and you still have a chance to show yourself on different stages. It may not be the biggest stage, but I’m still scoring goals and continuing to do my job.
“Given how the game is going, I think it will be a chance for some players to prove themselves. Everyone in the team has been training well and everyone is excited for everyone.”
“But as I said before, the manager is the manager and I have to respect his decision whether he thinks I should be on the pitch or not.”
The former Brentford goal machine says he knew his place in the team the moment he spotted his family in the stands.
Striker insists he can offer England more than just penalties (Image: Richard Sellers/Sports Photo/All Star via Getty Images)
They traveled to support him at the World Cup, which he described as a “huge honor” to represent England on the “biggest stage”.
But they wasted little time in bringing him back down to earth, as their son remained obsessed with catching a glimpse of Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice.
Tony said: “I really miss the kids being here, but I hope it’s for something special.”
“Oh, they’re coming. My son is starting to get more into soccer. He’s starting to kill me a little bit. He’s saying, ‘Why haven’t I come all this way and not played?’ It’s hard to answer that. ‘Daddy’s waiting.’
“He went to see them, not me. It was the first time he went to see me after the game and gave me a big hug. Then he pulled me aside and said, ‘Where’s Saka? Where’s December?’…’I missed you too, kid!’
Toney represents a formidable option off the bench, a true centre-forward who knows where the onion bags are.
Most importantly, Tuchel had the confidence to be upfront with Toney about his unexpected starting role, and that honesty has proven invaluable.
Tony said, “I always believe in myself. I know what I’m capable of. I know that if I get a chance, I’m going to take it. You always have to believe in yourself and what you can do.”
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