Toney pleads not guilty to nightclub assault charge

Ivan Toney, the England forward currently playing for Al-Ahli, appeared in Westminster Magistrates' Court on Thursday to plead not guilty to a charge of assault causing actual bodily harm. The charge stems from an incident at a nightclub in Soho, London, on December 6, where Toney is accused of headbutting and punching a man named Saber Da Silva. Toney confirmed his identity and age during the court proceedings.

Dressed in a black top over a shirt and tie, Toney arrived at the court accompanied by three members of his entourage shortly after 9.30am. The case follows an investigation conducted by London's Metropolitan Police, with the charge being announced in late July. Toney's spokesperson stated that he acknowledges the charge but is eager to clear his name in court.

Following the court appearance, Toney was released on unconditional bail until his next hearing, which is scheduled for October 29 at London's Southwark Crown Court. This case has garnered attention, especially as Toney represented England at the recent World Cup, accumulating 10 international caps and scoring one goal. However, he was not included in the latest squad for the Nations League matches.

Toney began his professional football career with Northampton Town and has played for clubs such as Wigan Athletic and Peterborough United. He joined Brentford in 2020, where he scored 72 goals over four years before making a notable transfer to Al-Ahli in 2024. The outcome of the court proceedings will be significant for Toney's career and public image.

via Sky Sports