FOOT IN THE ANDORRA

Toney's back and ready to prove Saudi move has not affected his form

- by SIMON PEACH

IVAN TONEY never feared his move to Saudi Arabia would affect his England ambitions and is ready to prove he is as good as ever upon his return to the international set-up.

The 29-year-old has been recalled for the first time since making a money-spinning switch from Brentford to Al-Ahli, shortly after helping Gareth Southgate's side reach the Euro 2024 final.

Toney was overlooked by interim boss Lee Carsley in the autumn and left out of Thomas Tuchel's first selection in charge, but the England boss stressed in March that it was nothing to do with him playing in the Saudi Pro League.

The striker appreciated the German coach calling him with that explanation and is even more grateful after recalling him for Saturday's World Cup qualifier against Andorra and the home friendly against Senegal next week.

"It's always tough missing out on a squad, but I think that's part of the game," Toney said.