Ivan Toney issues statement after receiving hefty ban for breaching gambling rules
By Tom Gott
Brentford striker Ivan Toney has admitted he is 'disappointed' after being handed an eight-month ban for numerous gambling offences.
The 27-year-old was charged with 262 breaches, 30 of which were ultimately withdrawn, and he pleaded guilty to the remaining 232, earning himself an eight-month suspension from all football activities.
Unable to play for Brentford until January 16, 2024, Toney took to social media to respond to the news.
"Today I have received notification of my eight-month ban from football following a hearing before an FA Regulatory Commission that took place yesterday," he wrote. "I am naturally disappointed that I will be unable to play for the next eight months.
"The written reasons for the Commission's decision have not yet been published, so I make no further comment at this point other than to thank my family and friends, Brentford FC and our fans for their continued support, through what has been a very difficult time.
"I now focus on returning to play the game I love next season."
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Toney's suspension begins immediately, meaning his season is over and he will play no part in Brentford's remaining three fixtures.
It also leads to an intriguing debate about Toney's future. With two years remaining on his Brentford contract, it had been expected that clubs from across the Premier League would look to land the 27-year-old this summer.
Bees boss Thomas Frank recently valued Toney at £100m, and although such a price tag was never realistic anyway, just whether any of the striker's suitors would still be interested in paying significant fees remains to be seen.
Chelsea are known to have tracked Toney as they look to sign a new striker this summer, although the Blues' focus is currently on Napoli striker Victor Osimhen.
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