Ivan Toney has pleaded not guilty to an allegation of assault following an appearance at Westminster Magistrates’ Court in London.
The Al-Ahli Saudi striker appeared before the court on Thursday over an incident alleged to have taken place at a nightclub in Soho last December. The case relates to an alleged confrontation at 100 Wardour Street.
Toney is accused of assaulting a man named Saber da Silva by headbutting and punching him, causing actual bodily harm.
According to Sky Sports, the England forward confirmed his identity and personal details before formally denying the charge. His plea means the case will proceed through the courts rather than ending at the allegation stage.
Toney arrived at court wearing a black jacket with a shirt and tie. He was accompanied by three members of his team as the court heard details of the incident and the allegations against him.
Prosecutor Tom Heslop said the alleged assault followed an argument at the venue. District Judge Briony Clarke indicated that the case could continue at the magistrates’ court, but Toney chose to face trial at the Crown Court before a judge and jury.
Following the hearing, Toney was released on unconditional bail. His next court appearance is scheduled to take place at Southwark Crown Court on 29 October, when proceedings are expected to continue.
The case comes as Toney continues his career with Al-Ahli Saudi, where he has become one of the club’s leading attacking players. His footballing career is now continuing alongside an unresolved legal case.
Toney’s charge and his not-guilty plea do not establish that an offence was committed or that he is guilty. The case remains subject to the legal process, with Toney maintaining his innocence until the proceedings are complete and a final decision has been reached.