England forward Ivan Toney has pleaded not guilty to a charge of assault causing actual bodily harm following an alleged incident at a London nightclub last December.
The 30-year-old appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, where he confirmed his identity and entered his plea over an incident alleged to have taken place at a Soho club on December 6.
Toney is accused of headbutting and punching Saber Da Silva during the alleged altercation.
The Al-Ahli forward arrived at court shortly after 9.30am, dressed in a black top over a shirt and tie. He was accompanied by three members of his entourage as he entered the London court.
The case follows an investigation by the Metropolitan Police, with the assault charge formally announced in late July.
Toney’s representatives have maintained that he intends to contest the allegation and clear his name through the legal process.
In a statement, his 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.”
Following Thursday’s hearing, Toney was granted unconditional bail. He is due to appear before a judge and jury at Southwark Crown Court on October 29, when proceedings in the criminal case are expected to continue.
The court case comes as Toney remains an established figure in England’s international setup, although he was not included in the latest squad for the country’s Nations League fixtures.
Toney represented England at this summer’s World Cup and has made 10 appearances for the national team, scoring once.
His football journey began at Northampton Town before spells with Wigan Athletic and Peterborough United helped establish him as one of the country’s most prolific forwards outside the Premier League’s traditional elite.
Toney joined Brentford in 2020 and quickly became the focal point of their attack. Across four years with the Bees, he scored 72 goals and played a key role in the club’s rise and consolidation in the Premier League.
His performances eventually earned him international recognition and attracted interest from abroad.
In 2024, Toney made a surprise move away from English football, joining Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli.
For now, however, the England forward’s attention is likely to extend beyond football, with his next major date set for October 29 at Southwark Crown Court.
The case remains ongoing, and Toney has denied the allegation by entering a not guilty plea.
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