Brentford striker Ivan Toney has expressed that the disappointment of missing out on the previous year’s World Cup was a far greater punishment than the ban he received for violating the Football Association’s betting regulations.
In May, Toney was handed an eight-month ban after admitting to 232 breaches of FA betting rules. Consequently, he was unable to secure a spot in Gareth Southgate’s 26-man squad for the 2022 World Cup, a setback he considers to be more significant than the lengthy ban itself.
Speaking to the Kick Game YouTube channel, Toney shared his perspective, saying, “Support is appreciated, but I don’t want pity. While missing eight months of football was a significant penalty, the true blow was missing out on a World Cup—everyone’s dream. It outweighs the impact of not playing for eight months.”
In March, Toney earned his first England cap as a late substitute during the 2-0 victory over Ukraine in the Euro 2024 qualifiers. He had received his initial call-up to Southgate’s squad in September the previous year.
Due to a diagnosed gambling addiction, Toney’s ban was reduced. He will be unable to compete until January 17, 2024. However, he can resume training with Brentford on September 17, four months prior to the ban’s conclusion.
“I’ve accepted the consequences of my actions, and now it’s about moving forward,” Toney stated. “I’m focused on my return to training. When I come back, I want to be an entirely different player. It’s going to be an awe-inspiring transformation.”
During the previous season, Toney was the Premier League’s third-highest scorer, finding the net 20 times and contributing to Brentford’s ninth-place finish.
For the latest Brentford news, analysis, and fan perspectives, be sure to stay updated. Get notifications for Bees news and tune in to the latest episode of The Far Post podcast. Our comprehensive coverage of Brentford is now more extensive than ever, ensuring you never miss a moment. Explore all the top content about Brentford today.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about World Cup disappointment
Q: What was Ivan Toney banned for?
A: Ivan Toney was banned for eight months after admitting to 232 breaches of the Football Association’s betting rules.
Q: Why did Ivan Toney miss the World Cup?
A: Ivan Toney missed the World Cup because he was not included in Gareth Southgate’s 26-man squad for the 2022 tournament.
Q: What did Ivan Toney consider a bigger punishment than his ban?
A: Ivan Toney believed that missing out on the World Cup was a greater punishment than his eight-month ban for betting rule violations.
Q: When will Ivan Toney be able to play again?
A: Ivan Toney will be eligible to play again from January 17, 2024, following the completion of his eight-month ban.
Q: How did Ivan Toney describe his mindset about the situation?
A: Ivan Toney expressed that he didn’t want anyone to feel sorry for him and that he accepted the consequences of his actions. He aimed to focus on his comeback and become a better player.
Q: How did Ivan Toney perform in the previous season?
A: Ivan Toney had an impressive season, finishing as the Premier League’s third-highest scorer with 20 goals and contributing to Brentford’s ninth-place finish.
More about World Cup disappointment
- Ivan Toney: Brentford striker says missing World Cup worse than eight-month ban over betting (BBC Sport)
- Ivan Toney (Brentford FC Official Website)
- Football Association (The FA Official Website)
- Gareth Southgate (England Football Official Website)
- Premier League (Premier League Official Website)
