Footballer Ivan Toney pleads not guilty over alleged assault at Soho nightclub

England international Ivan Toney has pleaded not guilty to assault over an alleged incident in a Soho nightclub on 6 December last year.

The 30-year-old, who plays for Saudi Arabian club Al Ahli, appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Thursday to face the charge for the first time.

He is accused of headbutting and punching Saber Da Silva during a confrontation at a nightclub in Wardour Street, central London.

Toney pleaded not guilty to a charge of assault occasioning actual bodily harm after confirming his name and age at the hearing.

He was freed on unconditional bail until a hearing at Southwark Crown Court on 29 October.

In a statement, Toney's spokesperson said: "Ivan acknowledges the charge and although he is naturally shocked, he looks forward to being given the opportunity to clear his name in court."

Who is Ivan Toney?

The footballer started his career at Northampton Town, his local club, making his debut in 2012.

At the age of 19, he was signed by Premier League side Newcastle United. He moved to Peterborough United in 2018, and after an impressive run of form, he joined Brentford in 2020.

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Toney helped Brentford win promotion to the Premier League for the first time in their history the following year.

He joined Al Ahli two years ago in a deal worth a reported £40m, and was part of Thomas Tuchel's England squad for this summer's World Cup.

He has 10 international appearances, and has scored once for England.

However, Toney missed out on the latest squad for the ongoing Nations League tournament.

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