Thomas Tuchel has called up Ivan Toney for England’s upcoming international friendlies against Brazil and Belgium, marking the Brentford striker’s first senior call-up since his 2019 debut. The decision breaks a five-year absence from the national team and signals Tuchel’s intent to reshape England’s attacking options.
Key Points
- ✅ Toney last played for England in 2019
- ⚡ Tuchel prioritizes physicality and aerial ability in forward selections
- 💡 Brentford’s data shows Toney ranks top for aerial duels among Premier League strikers
Sources within the FA confirm Toney’s inclusion came after private discussions between Tuchel and Gareth Southgate, with the new manager insisting on a fresh attacking profile. Toney, 28, has scored 12 goals in 27 Premier League games this season, but his call-up is less about raw numbers and more about his adaptability in a system Tuchel is building.
Inside the England camp, Toney’s presence is already shifting dynamics. His ability to play as a lone striker or alongside another forward gives Tuchel tactical flexibility against elite opposition. Brazil and Belgium rank among the world’s most defensively solid teams, making Toney’s physical presence a calculated risk.
| England Striker | Height | Aerial Success Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Ivan Toney | 6’3” | 58% |
| Ollie Watkins | 6’2” | 49% |
| Elliott Anderson | 5’11” | 42% |
Tuchel’s selection is also a statement about squad culture. Toney, who has faced criticism in the past for social media controversies, has reportedly undergone a period of intense professional reflection. The FA has confirmed he has met all behavioral and fitness requirements, clearing the final hurdle for his return.
💡 Pro Tip
England’s next two fixtures will test Tuchel’s tactical boldness—using Toney as a pivot could force opponents into uncomfortable defensive shapes, but over-reliance risks exposing gaps in midfield.
The timing of Toney’s recall is no accident. With Harry Kane’s future uncertain and England’s Euro 2024 campaign looming, Tuchel is assembling a squad that can adapt to multiple formations. Toney’s inclusion in the March squad is just the first step—expect him to feature prominently if he impresses in training.
📋 By The Numbers
- 5 years — Since Toney’s last England cap
- 6’3” — Toney’s height, crucial for aerial battles
Reaction from the England squad has been mixed. Some veterans welcome the fresh energy, while others question the timing of a call-up for a player who hasn’t featured in competitive internationals. Tuchel, however, has dismissed the skepticism, stating in a press conference that "talent and attitude are not measured in caps."
- First match — England vs Brazil, March 23 at Wembley, sold out
- Second match — England vs Belgium, March 26 at St James’ Park
- Third update — Squad finalized on March 18, with Toney included as one of 26 players
The FA has not confirmed Toney’s starting role, but insiders suggest he could start against Brazil as part of a three-man attack. Tuchel’s gamble could either redefine England’s attacking future or become a cautionary tale—only time will tell.
- 📊 Toney leads Premier League strikers in aerial duels won per game (3.7)
- 🔍 Belgium’s defense has conceded just one headed goal in their last 10 matches
- ⚠️ England’s midfield lacks natural width when playing a single striker
One thing is certain: Tuchel’s England is no longer a team bound by tradition. Toney’s recall is the latest in a series of unconventional choices that signal a clear break from the Gareth Southgate era—and a high-stakes experiment that England fans will either celebrate or scrutinize.
