Ivan Toney Hails England Debut as “a special moment” In His Career

Brentford striker, Ivan Toney has hailed his international debut in England’s 2-0 win over Ukraine as “a special moment” in his career.

Toney first received a maiden senior international call-up in September 2022 against Italy and Germany in UEFA Nations League, but was left out of the matchday squad for their defeat in Italy then named as an unused substitute against Germany a few days later.

Manager, Gareth Southgate then snubbed the 27 year-old in his World Cup selection but recalled him for this month’s opening Euro qualifiers against Italy and Ukraine, although he wasn’t utilised in Naples but eventually made his debut in the 81st minute of their home win over Ukraine.

His substitute appearance also made Toney only the third Brentford player to represent England whilst playing for the Bees, and the first player to do so in the post WWII era.

“Everybody at Brentford was rooting for me,” commented Toney post-match as he revealed that his teammates had been “messaging” him throughout the international break.

On what it means to be only the third Brentford player to play for England, Toney said: “It’s a special moment for myself, a special moment for Brentford, and everybody involved.

“I was speaking about it the other day with my friend: three or four years ago I was in League One fighting to get promotion. Now I’m getting my cap for England.

“It’s been a massive journey, a long journey but to finally make it is a massive achievement. The hard work starts now and hopefully I can continue that.”

Toney though admitted that displacing Harry Kane for a starting spot in the line-up is a “tough” ask after replacing him as a substitute, as he praised England’s all-time goalscorer as “one of the best strikers in the world.”

The 27 year-old striker however iterated that he won’t hesitate to grasp any opportunities to start for England if the chances materialise, as he added: “All I can keep doing is keep working hard and when my chance comes, take it with two hands. I did that today and thankfully I got my cap, it means a lot.”

Despite failing to score on debut, Toney was glad to help his England teammates see out their win over Ukraine, as he stated that “doing things right,” was the main priority in order to “see the game out” without conceding despite “itching to get the ball in the back of the net” at Wembley.

Offering advice on what unselected players can do to try and earn a call-up, Toney concluded: “When you’re not playing you’ve got to do that – make sure you’re working hard and keep progressing.

“You have to keep your name ringing around the manager’s mind and, when he gives you the chance, you’ve got to take it.”