England striker Ivan Toney appeared in court today, where he formally entered a plea of not guilty to the charge of assaulting a man at a Soho nightclub.
The 30-year-old footballer, who currently plays for the Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli, arrived at Westminster Magistrates’ Court shortly after 9:30 a.m. Dressed in a black top over a shirt and tie, Toney was accompanied by three members of his entourage. He stood in the dock to confirm his name and age before entering his plea to the single charge of assault occasioning actual bodily harm.
The legal proceedings follow a Metropolitan Police investigation into an incident that occurred on December 6 last year on Wardour Street in Soho. Toney stands accused of assaulting a man named Saber Da Silva.
Following the hearing, a spokesperson for the striker released a brief statement regarding the case. “Ivan acknowledges the charge and although he is naturally shocked, he looks forward to being given the opportunity to clear his name in court,” the statement read.
Toney, a prominent figure in English football, has had a high-profile career over the past several years. His domestic journey began at Northampton Town, eventually leading to successful spells at Wigan Athletic and Peterborough United. He became a standout star during his four-year stint with Brentford, where he netted 72 goals, before completing a high-profile £40 million transfer to Al-Ahli in 2024. Since his move to the Saudi Pro League, he has recorded 55 goals in 62 appearances.
On the international stage, Toney has earned ten caps for England and scored one goal. He was a member of the national squad that competed in the Euro 2024 championships and the 2026 World Cup earlier this summer. Despite his international experience, he was omitted from the most recent squad selected for the country’s ongoing Nations League ties.
The charge against the striker was first announced in late July following a thorough investigation by the Metropolitan Police. As the legal process now moves forward, the case remains under public scrutiny given Toney’s status in the sport.
The court appearance marks the first time Toney has formally responded to the allegations in a legal setting. Further proceedings are expected to follow as the case progresses through the judicial system.
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