Brentford’s Ivan Toney presses England claim with double to see off Brighton

If Gareth Southgate needed any more persuasion that Ivan Toney is worth a place in England’s World Cup squad then surely this performance seals it. Two goals from the Brentford striker including an impudent flick and another penalty to maintain his 100% record from the spot were a perfect example of the 26-year-old’s qualities at just the right time.

Southgate must name his preliminary squad for Qatar by Friday and despite leaving Toney on the bench during the Nations League fixtures against Germany and Italy last month, the former Northampton and Newcastle striker looks more than a decent bet to be on the plane after moving level with Harry Kane on eight Premier League goals this season. For Thomas Frank, it was a timely result as Brentford moved into the top half of the table and within one point of Brighton, who are still waiting for a first victory under new manager Roberto De Zerbi.

In the week that Enock Mwepu was forced to retire from football after being diagnosed with a hereditary heart condition, Brighton’s players warmed up with T-shirts bearing the message “Chambishi to the Premier League. Your dream came true. We are all with you” in tribute to the midfielder. Owner Tony Bloom was even spotted among the supporters in the away end with a Zambia flag, with Adam Lallana admitting beforehand that the sad news had “put a massive perspective on what matters in life”.

De Zerbi could consider himself unfortunate to have only picked up a solitary point from his first two matches since succeeding Graham Potter and selected the same side that were narrowly beaten by Tottenham last week. There was a tweak in formation, however, with opposite number Frank opting to ditch his usual three-man defence as he made three