Brentford boss Thomas Frank’s first words after Ivan Toney’s England call-up

Brentford boss Thomas Frank has heaped praise on Ivan Toney after the striker’s call-up to the latest England squad.

The attacker has been a key player for the Bees over the past couple of years and is now in line to make his first appearance for the Three Lions.

Toney, 26, has scored 52 goals in 96 games since joining from Peterborough United back in 2020.

‘Fantastic’...

His manager has said, as per the club’s official website:

“This is a fantastic day, especially for Ivan but also for everyone at Brentford. The most credit must go to Ivan, who has performed exceptionally on the pitch ever since he joined us and has shown that he has the potential to play for England.

“He is one of our leaders and has excelled as a player and a person. Every match, Brentford fans can see what he brings to our team, all over the pitch, and I hope England fans get a chance to see it as well.

“Tributes should also be paid to his family and everyone who has worked with him at previous clubs to help him develop.”

Brentford will be hoping that they can keep hold of the former Newcastle United man for as long as possible but speculation regarding a move elsewhere is inevitable, especially if he starts scoring goals on the international stage.

Toney will be eager to impress Gareth Southgate at the end of this month as he looks to be in the squad for the World Cup in Qatar this winter.

England have Nations League clashes against Italy and Germany in a couple of weeks time.