Declan Rice has told TalkSPORT that Ivan Toney has taken the Premier League “by storm” ever since Brentford’s promotion to the Premier League – amid reports in the summer he was a target for Leeds, West Ham and Newcastle.
Toney, 26, has been called-up to the England squad this month as the Three Lions prepare to take on Italy and Germany in the UEFA Nations League. It comes after a wonderful campaign last term, and a superb start to 2022-23.
Indeed, Toney had a hand in 17 goals last season for Brentford last season in 35 Premier League games – scoring 12 and creating five. This season, he has five goals and two assists in seven. For Brentford, he has 52 goals in 97 games.
Incredible numbers. Hardly surprising that the likes of Leeds, West Ham, Newcastle and even Manchester United were considering a move in the summer. He is believed to be rated at £50million – and clearly, Rice is a big fan of Toney.
“From the moment he’s stepped in the Premier League, he’s taken it by storm. If you look at what he has done for Brentford, he has been so consistent. Deserved his call-up,” Rice said, when asked about Toney.
Comparing him to Tottenham striker Harry Kane, he continued: “He’s like Kane where he’s not just an out-and-out striker, but a playmaker too. His left foot and right foot passing, how he picks out teammates is a special technique.”
Rice: Toney taken Premier League by storm amid West Ham reports
Toney made the right decision in the summer, and that was to stay put. Leeds have Patrick Bamford – when he is fit. Manchester United have Marcus Rashford, Cristiano Ronaldo and Anthony Martial.
Newcastle have signed Alexander Isak, and West Ham have signed Gianluca Scamacca. His game time would have been affected at all four clubs. Staying at Brentford gives him the platform to win a place in the World Cup squad.
That is proven by his latest call-up. Perhaps after the World Cup, or next summer, Toney can re-evaluate his future. But right now, Brentford is the best place for the soon-to-be England international to play his football.
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