Ivan Toney admits a call-up to England squad not certain amid tough competition

Brentford star Ivan Toney has conceded that a call-up to the England squad is not certain amid tough competition for places. 

The 27-year-old marked his return from his eight-month ban with a stunning free-kick goal against Nottingham Forest in January. 

The forward subsequently registered three more goals but has blanked in his last four Premier League outings. 

Toney is widely regarded as one of the best strikers in England and is expected to leave Brentford to join Arsenal or Chelsea this summer. 

The Northampton-born footballer is currently targeting a place in Gareth Southgate’s England squad but knows he may miss out due to the huge competition. 

In an interview with Sky Sports, he said: “Yeah, that’s the aim, what I want to be involved in. That’s what I see myself being around. 

“I mean, the quality of players that playing at international level is what I like to be involved in. But I know there are a lot of good other strikers in my position and have a chance. 

“So I mean, what will be will be and what will fall into place will fall into place.” 

Harry Kane is England’s number-one striker, and he is likely to continue in that role following his impressive goalscoring feats this season.

Ollie Watkins, Dominic Solanke and Toney are competing to be the 30-year-old’s deputy for the upcoming European Championship.  

Watkins looks to have the best chance, as his performances have been excellent for Aston Villa this season.

The 28-year-old has scored 21 goals and registered ten assists in 39 appearances across all competitions.

Solanke is another good candidate. He has scored 15 goals in 28 Premier League appearances. 

Toney has been inconsistent since returning from his eight-month exile, and the huge competition means he will likely miss out.