“That was a factor that did come into play. I felt like: ‘You got rid of me, I am going to show you what I am capable of when I get the chance, whether it is a Premier League side or a League One side.’
“When I left Newcastle and went to Peterborough I wasn’t straight in the team so I had to work much harder. Other strikers in front of me who were scoring goals. It was about being patient and when your chance comes you have to take it.”
With World Cup places up for grabs, Toney has a chance to establish himself as one of Harry Kane’s deputies. Part of his appeal is his nerveless penalty technique, though he made sure not to trip himself up when asked whether he was better at spot‑kicks than England’s captain. “He’s done it on a bigger stage,” Toney said. “So I’ll say Harry Kane.”
Toney, who spoke about the support he has received from his parents, found out about his England call-up from his manager, Thomas Frank. “I was driving to training and the Brentford gaffer called me,” he said. “I was running a bit late so thought he was calling about my timekeeping. Then he said: ‘I have the privilege to say you have been called up to the England senior squad.’ For once in my life I had nothing to say … I was just thinking: ‘Wow I am actually going to play with the England team.’
“It took me a while to register and I was just answering the gaffer’s questions. Then I came off the phone and rang my parents. We have a family group chat. I broke the news and they were just screaming for 20 minutes. Everyone going crazy. It was a massive moment for my whole family.”
