Ivan Toney of Brentford FC has expressed shock and disappointment over the reports of a potential six-month ban due to a series of alleged breaches of Football Association (FA) betting rules.
The 26-year-old forward was initially charged with 232 suspected violations of betting rules in November and was later charged with a further 30 alleged breaches of FA betting rules in December. Toney has denied some of these charges between 2017 and 2021.
In a statement on his Instagram, Toney expressed his shock and disappointment about the details of the ongoing case emerging in the media. He has requested that the FA conduct a ‘leak inquiry’. His lawyers are said to have written to the FA to make this request. He has stated that it is incredibly ‘disturbing’ to read that the FA is suggesting a six-month ban before any hearing has taken place.
The FA has now taken the case back and will review it Based on the evidence. The commission will then before a hearing date is announced, Toney must respond to the accusations and decide whether to dismiss or uphold any charges denied by Toney and will take into account his unique set of circumstances.
They will then examine all the offences before deciding his punishment. It is understood that Toney is facing a ban of at least six months if he is found to have bet on his team. It would include the summer months and would be a significant blow to Brentford’s hopes of success this season, as they are currently in a strong position in the table.
However, the Football Association and Brentford have declined to comment on the situation. This case highlights the importance of following betting rules set by the FA and any other governing body.