England striker Ivan Toney denies assault charge

England striker Ivan Toney has pleaded not guilty to a charge of assault occasioning actual bodily harm. The 30-year-old footballer is accused of headbutting and punching Saber Da Silva at a nightclub in Wardour Street, Soho, on December 6. Toney confirmed his name and age at Westminster Magistrates' Court and entered his plea. The prosecution alleged that Toney and Mr. Da Silva "squared up to each other" before Toney "lunged forward and headbutted the complainant, followed by a few punches." District Judge Briony Clarke indicated the case could be tried in the magistrates court, but Toney opted for a trial by judge and jury at Crown Court. He was released on unconditional bail pending a hearing at Southwark Crown Court on October 29. Toney, who has 10 caps for England and previously played for Brentford, now plays for Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli. His spokesperson stated that Toney acknowledges the charge and "looks forward to being given the opportunity to clear his name in court."