Ivan Toney Eyes Redemption as He Makes Long-Awaited Return for Brentford

John Rul

January 19, 2024 · 2 min read

Ivan Toney Eyes Redemption as He Makes Long-Awaited Return for Brentford
FootBall | January 19, 2024
Ivan Toney faced an eight-month football ban for acknowledging 232 violations of the FA's betting regulations. (Image: David Klein)

Ivan Toney is set to make a highly anticipated return to the pitch after an eight-month ban for betting offenses, bringing his goal-scoring prowess back to Brentford. The top scorer for the West London club in the 2022-23 season, Toney aims to assist Brentford in overcoming their recent struggles in the Premier League, where they’ve faced five consecutive defeats and seven losses in the last eight matches.

Despite attracting interest from bigger clubs like Arsenal and Chelsea, Toney’s potential move in the January transfer window seems uncertain. Currently, Brentford, missing key players due to injuries, eagerly await his return for the late home game against Nottingham Forest.

Having scored 20 goals in 30 league appearances last season, Toney showcased his readiness by netting a hat-trick for Brentford’s B team in a recent friendly. He has set personal goal targets for the season, expressing his desire to contribute significantly and reach the Euros in the summer.

While Toney refrains from disclosing specific goal numbers, he emphasized his eagerness to thank the fans for their unwavering support by delivering impact performances on the field. Brentford, currently 16th in the league and just three points above the relegation zone, are counting on Toney to help secure crucial points in the upcoming matches.

In the broader Premier League landscape, Arsenal faces Crystal Palace in a lunchtime game, aiming to climb in the standings, while Liverpool has the opportunity to extend their lead over Manchester City when they face Bournemouth on Sunday. Sheffield United hosts West Ham United on Sunday, and Wolverhampton Wanderers travels to Brighton & Hove Albion for Monday’s fixture.