(Reuters) – Ivan TonyEngland manager says his qualities are 'underrated' gareth southgate He gave the in-form forward some tips on how to make the most of his first start for the national team in Tuesday's friendly against Belgium.
Toney, who has one cap as a substitute for England, is hoping to make his mark as the top scorer ahead of Euro 2024. harry kane Absent due to injury.
Toney, 28, has scored in 10 games for Brentford since returning in January after serving an eight-month suspension for breaching FA gambling regulations.
Toney was left on the bench as a forward for Aston Villa in their 1-0 loss to Brazil on Saturday. ollie watkins Played the full 90 minutes.
Southgate told reporters: “I think[Tony's]quality of football is sometimes underestimated. “Unless you do, you won't know the true essence of a player.” .
“But that's the way things are in England, so you don't get hundreds of chances. He's a confident guy and he's been in good form at the club and he's coming in.
“He'll be on the field on Tuesday, there's no doubt about it. Confidence is crucial. That swagger, that confidence. All the top forward players have that,” Southgate said. added.
“He looks like he's a big man, but he's not just a target man. The quality of his link play is also very good. (His penalty record) is definitely a huge asset. We obviously have a lot of challenges. “Team balance must be resolved.'' ”
(Reporting by Shifa Jahan in Bengaluru; Editing by Ed Osmond)