ENGLAND boss Gareth Southgate has broken his silence on Ivan Toney’s eight-month ban.
The Brentford striker picked up a lengthy suspension for breaching betting rules 232 times.
He is banned from the sport until January 16 and cannot play or train with a team until September 17.
Southgate has now shared what concerns him about the suspension at a press conference while releasing his squad for England’s upcoming Euro 2024 qualifiers versus Malta and North Macedonia in June.
He said: “I have spoken to him. He has recognised the punishment.
“But what bothers me is that we have to look after people. He is injured and what does he do about getting fit?
READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
“We have to give him structure so he can develop himself and maybe become a better person over the period.
“I don’t like the fact we should leave someone and not let them be part of the football community.”
On if Toney will ever play for England again, Southgate said: “When his ban is over it will not have any bearing over whether we will pick him.”
The gaffer even admitted he may make the cut for Euro 2024, stating: “Without a doubt, it is not ideal as he will miss a large chunk of the season and you don’t know how he will adapt but it is possible.”
Most read in Football
Southgate called-up Toney to the England squad at the beginning of this season and handed him his international debut just two months ago.
The 27-year-old has impressed in the Premier League this season, scoring 20 goals in 33 games.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
