Ivan Toney Remains Confident In England Career After Joining Al-Ahli In Saudi Pro League

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Ivan Toney expressed confidence about his prospects of playing for England again after joining Al-Ahli in the Saudi Pro League last August. He was unexpectedly recalled by Thomas Tuchel for England's World Cup qualifier against Andorra and a friendly with Senegal next Tuesday. Toney, who last played for England in their Euro 2024 final loss to Spain, has six caps since debuting in 2023.

Toney transferred from Brentford to Al-Ahli last summer, where he scored 30 goals and provided six assists in 44 matches across all competitions. When asked at a training camp in Girona if moving to Saudi Arabia might impact his England chances, he confidently replied no. "You see with me I think if you're just doing the right thing, playing football, playing well and scoring goals - a striker's job, that's what you're in a team to do," Toney said.

Toney believes that performing well should earn players opportunities regardless of where they play. "It doesn't matter where you play in the world, I feel like you should still get the chance," he stated. His return to the national team proves this point, as he feels welcomed back among his teammates. "It feels good to see the faces again, and it feels good to get stuck in," he added.

In the Saudi Pro League this season, only Cristiano Ronaldo of Al-Nassr has outscored Toney, with Ronaldo netting 25 goals compared to Toney's 23. The England forward surpassed Karim Benzema's 21 goals and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's 19 goals. "I feel like I'm in good form. As you see, I'm here, I'm still scoring goals," Toney remarked.

Toney remains hopeful about maintaining his goal-scoring form and staying in contention for the World Cup squad. His consistent performance demonstrates his determination and ability to compete at an international level despite playing outside Europe.