Toney insists he brings more than penalties as England squad role comes under scrutiny

Ivan Toney has rejected the notion that his place in England’s World Cup squad exists solely to take penalties, insisting he is a well-rounded striker who deserves the chance to prove his broader value to Thomas Tuchel’s side.

The Al-Ahli forward, who plays in the Saudi Pro League, was considered a surprise inclusion in Tuchel’s squad, with his exceptional penalty record — including a celebrated no-look technique — widely cited as a key factor in the call-up. But Toney is keen to be seen as more than a shoot-out specialist.

“I like to think I bring more than just penalties,” Toney said. “I like to think I am a good player also. I think I can bring more to the game. But if I’m just to come on for one minute and take a penalty I’d never turn that down — I’m here to help the team.”

Toney acknowledged the reality of his current squad standing, accepting that others are ahead of him in Tuchel’s plans while remaining focused on seizing any opportunity that comes his way. “There are players that are playing — you have to be ready to take your chance,” he said. “I’m here now, I have done something right and hopefully I get my chance.”

The former Brentford striker drew on England’s experience at Euro 2024 as a reminder of how quickly fortunes can shift. “Football changes very fast, like we seen at the Euros. I got one minute, I’m down and frustrated, and then we score and we progress. Nobody can think the game is done — you just have to be ready for when you’re called upon.”

Toney also spoke warmly about having his family present at the tournament, though the visit came with a humbling moment. His son, he revealed, was far more interested in meeting Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice than his own father.

“My son is starting to get into football a lot more,” Toney said with a laugh. “He’s saying: ‘Why am I coming all this way and not playing.’ It’s hard to respond to that. After the game, it was the first time he’s seen me and he went to go see them boys, not me.”

Despite his reduced role, Toney remains upbeat about his prospects. “I just have to keep focused on myself, keep training well, keep being the happy person I am — and hopefully I get some minutes,” he said.