Ivan Toney has become a prominent figure in English football, known for his prolific goal-scoring ability and his journey from the lower leagues to the heights of the Premier League. This article delves into Toney’s career, exploring his statistics, achievements, and the various facets of his game that have made him one of the most talked-about strikers in recent years.
Early Career and Breakthrough at Peterborough United
Born in Northampton, England, on March 16, 1996, Toney’s footballing journey began at his local club, Northampton Town. He made his professional debut in 2012 but struggled to establish himself, leading to loan spells at Barnsley, Shrewsbury Town, Scunthorpe United, and Wigan Athletic.
It was at Peterborough United in League One where Toney truly blossomed. During his two seasons there, he scored an impressive 40 goals in 76 appearances, showcasing his predatory instincts and clinical finishing.
This prolific form earned him a move to Brentford in the Championship in 2020.
Championship Success and Premier League Impact
Toney’s goal-scoring prowess continued in the Championship, where he played a crucial role in Brentford’s promotion to the Premier League. In the 2020-21 season, he broke the Championship record for most goals in a single season, netting 31 times. His contributions were instrumental in Brentford’s playoff victory, securing their place in the top flight for the first time in 74 years.
Toney’s impact in the Premier League was immediate. He adapted seamlessly to the higher level, scoring 12 goals in his debut season and helping Brentford maintain their Premier League status. The following season, he further solidified his reputation as a top-flight striker, scoring 20 goals and becoming a key figure in Brentford’s impressive performances.
International Recognition and Current Challenges
Toney’s consistent performances in the Premier League earned him a call-up to the England national team in 2023. He made his debut against Ukraine in March 2023, fulfilling a long-held ambition.
However, Toney’s career has also faced challenges. In 2023, he was handed an eight-month ban from football for breaching betting rules. This suspension sidelined him for a significant period, interrupting his momentum and raising questions about his future.
Playing Style and Strengths
Toney is a versatile striker with a well-rounded game. His key strengths include:
Finishing: Toney is a clinical finisher, capable of scoring with both feet and his head. He possesses excellent composure in front of goal and a knack for being in the right place at the right time.
Aerial Ability: Toney is a dominant presence in the air, winning a high percentage of aerial duels. His height and strength make him a constant threat from crosses and set-pieces.
Link-up Play: Toney is not just a goal scorer; he also contributes to his team’s build-up play. He has good hold-up play and can bring his teammates into the game with his passing and movement.
Penalty Taking: Toney is a reliable penalty taker, with a high conversion rate throughout his career.
Statistical Overview
Toney’s career statistics reflect his consistent goal-scoring record:
Club Career: Over 300 appearances and more than 150 goals across various leagues.
Premier League: 67 goals in 128 appearances for Brentford.
Championship: 33 goals in 52 appearances for Brentford.
The Future
Despite the recent ban, Toney remains a highly sought-after striker. His proven goal-scoring ability and all-around game make him a valuable asset to any team. As he returns to football, he will be eager to prove himself once again and continue his ascent in the world of football.
FAQs
What are Ivan Toney’s career statistics?
As of the 2024/2025 season, Ivan Toney has played a total of 381 professional matches, scoring 167 goals and providing 51 assists. His appearances span various competitions, with notable contributions in the EFL League One, Premier League, Championship, and international tournaments.
How did Ivan Toney perform in the 2024/2025 season?
In the 2024/2025 season, Toney featured in 26 matches for Al-Ahli, netting 16 goals and assisting four times. His goal tally includes 10 in the Professional League and five in the AFC Champions League, showcasing his consistent scoring ability.
What is Ivan Toney’s goal-per-90-minutes ratio?
During the 2024/2025 Professional League season, Toney maintained a goal-per-90-minutes ratio of 0.64, indicating his efficiency in front of goal. This statistic reflects his ability to score consistently throughout the matches he played.
How many penalties has Ivan Toney scored in his career?
Throughout his career, Toney has successfully converted 34 penalties across all competitions. His composure and accuracy from the spot have made him a reliable penalty taker for his teams.
What are Ivan Toney’s international statistics with England?
Toney made his debut for the England national team in 2023. As of July 2024, he has earned six caps and scored one goal. His first international goal came from a penalty in a friendly match against Belgium, contributing to a 2–2 draw.
Which clubs has Ivan Toney played for during his career?
Toney’s professional journey began with Northampton Town, followed by stints at Newcastle United, Barnsley, Shrewsbury Town, Scunthorpe United, Wigan Athletic, Peterborough United, and Brentford. In August 2024, he transferred to Al-Ahli in the Saudi Pro League.
What honors has Ivan Toney achieved in his career?
Toney’s accolades include winning the Football League One play-offs with Barnsley in 2016, the EFL League One title with Wigan Athletic in 2017–18, and the EFL Championship play-offs with Brentford in 2021. Individually, he was named in the PFA EFL League One Team of the Year for 2019–20 and the PFA EFL Championship Team of the Year for 2020–21.
How did Ivan Toney perform during his time at Brentford?
Toney joined Brentford in August 2020 and made a significant impact by scoring 31 league goals in the 2020–21 season, setting a new Championship record. His contributions were pivotal in Brentford’s promotion to the Premier League. Over his tenure, he amassed 67 goals in 128 appearances for the club.
What was the nature of Ivan Toney’s suspension in 2023?
In May 2023, Toney received an eight-month ban from football due to breaches of the Football Association’s betting rules, specifically 232 violations between 2017 and 2021. He was also fined £50,000. The suspension concluded in January 2024, after which he resumed his professional career.
How has Ivan Toney’s performance been since joining Al-Ahli?
Since his transfer to Al-Ahli in August 2024, Toney has continued his impressive form, scoring 16 goals in 26 appearances during the 2024/2025 season. His contributions have been instrumental in Al-Ahli’s domestic and continental campaigns.
To conclude
Ivan Toney’s football career is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and consistent performance. From his early days at Northampton Town to his current role at Al-Ahli, Toney has demonstrated an innate ability to find the back of the net across various leagues and competitions. His journey reflects a player who has overcome challenges, including a significant suspension, to reestablish himself at the professional level.
Toney’s statistical achievements underscore his prowess as a striker. Accumulating 167 goals in 381 matches highlights his reliability and consistency on the field. His proficiency in penalty situations, with 34 successful conversions, further cements his reputation as a composed and dependable scorer under pressure.
Internationally, earning caps for England and scoring at the national level signifies recognition of his talents on a broader stage. His contributions during pivotal matches, such as the UEFA Euro 2024, showcase his ability to perform under high-stakes conditions.
The transition to Al-Ahli marks a new chapter in Toney’s career, where he continues to exhibit his goal-scoring capabilities. His impact in the Saudi Pro League and the AFC Champions League demonstrates his adaptability and commitment to maintaining high performance standards, regardless of the league or opposition.
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