England and Al Ahli footballer Ivan Toney denies nightclub assault

Ivan Toney, the 30-year-old footballer from England, appeared in court on Thursday, pleading not guilty to assault charges. Toney, who plays for the Saudi Arabian club Al Ahli and has represented England in 10 matches, stood in the dock to confirm his name and age and deny the charge of assault occasioning actual bodily harm. The alleged incident occurred at a London nightclub on Wardour Street in Soho on December 6 last year, where he is accused of attacking Saber Da Silva.

District Judge Briony Clarke mentioned that the case could be tried by a magistrate, but Toney opted for a trial at the Crown Court with a judge and jury. Toney was granted unconditional bail until the next hearing at Southwark Crown Court on October 29. Following the hearing, Toney's spokesperson issued a statement, acknowledging the charge and expressing his intention to clear his name in court.

Toney, who was part of England's World Cup squad this summer, is currently not in the squad for the Nations League tournament. He joined Al Ahli from Brentford two years ago in a deal worth approximately £40 million.