Brentford Boss Praises Toney’s Mentality Amid FA Investigation

• Brentford striker Ivan Toney is facing multiple FA charges for allegedly breaching betting rules
• Betting is prohibited for active footballers and Toney allegedly breached the FA rules 262 times
• Head coach Thomas Frank praised Toney's mentality and promised support even if he is banned

Brentford striker Ivan Toney is facing a possible lengthy ban, if found guilty of the charges against him for allegedly breaching English Football Association rules on betting for professional footballers.

Toney was charged with 262 incidents of breaching the rule and has until January 4, 2023 to respond to the allegations, which could result in a career-impacting ban if found guilty.

Brentford head coach Thomas Frank has now rallied for his star striker, saying he is impressed by his mentality and delivery for the club despite the ongoing challenges in his personal life.

The 26-year-old was left out of England's squad for the Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup, but head coach Gareth Southgate claimed it has no connection to his ongoing probe, as reported by the Mirror.

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Thomas Frank's statement on Toney

Brentford are preparing for a London derby against West Ham later today.

Speaking ahead of the game, as quoted by the Express, Frank praised the English striker's mentality and offered him his support.

“I will be there for Ivan if anything happens. It is important for me as his coach to give that support, so he knows he is fully backed. I can only praise Ivan for his mentality and his character. He is in many ways unique.”

Toney scored in the 2-2 draw against Tottenham Hotspur on Boxing Day, and the Dane said the striker has high-level concentration.

“His ability to have that laser focus going into the game, fulfilling his role in the team, is remarkable. I don’t see a more determined player or angry player. I just see the same Ivan, who wants to progress and be better every day.” he added.

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The last time an English player was found guilty of betting, it was Kieran Trippier who was suspended for 13 weeks and fined £70,000 by FIFA, as reported by the Athletic.

Aguero wins bet on Messi

Toney may have landed trouble for alleged betting, but not former Premier League striker Sergio Aguero, as Sports Brief earlier reported.

He won the bet he placed on Lionel Messi to win the 2022 FIFA World Cup golden ball in Qatar. The former Manchester City striker placed a bet of $1,000 and won $8,000.

The South Americans' victory in the Mundial was the third final won in 18 months under Lionel Scaloni, after Argentina also winning the 2021 Copa America and the Finalissima.