Gareth Southgate unable to ignore Ivan Toney’s form despite potential ban

England boss Gareth Southgate admits there was no reason to exclude Ivan Toney – despite a potential ban hanging over the player.

The in-form Brentford striker is in Southgate’s squad for the Euro 2024 qualifiers against Italy and Ukraine this month – the manager’s first since the World Cup quarter-final exit to France in December.

Toney is still waiting for a Football Association verdict after being charged with 262 breaches of Football Association gambling rules, with a lengthy suspension possible.

Toney – who turned 27 on Thursday – scored his 17th goal of the season in Brentford’s 2-0 win at Southampton on Wednesday with Southgate unable to ignore his form.

“The fact is he is playing and is available for his club, there hasn’t been a trial or any judgement so I don’t know on what basis we wouldn’t pick him,” said Southgate.

“Before the World Cup Callum Wilson had a brilliant run of form, he hit form just at the right time, but he has had a little bit of an injury which has inhibited his performance in the last few weeks.

“Ivan has been consistent across the season. As soon as we announced the (World Cup) squad he had a brilliant game at Manchester City which was typical but he is playing really well.

“I like his presence in games. I saw his game at Arsenal where I thought he was outstanding and he deserves his opportunity.”

Manchester City full-back Kyle Walker is also in for the trip to Naples and visit of Ukraine despite being investigated by police after allegedly exposing himself in a bar.

“It’s a complicated situation, I’ve spoken at length with him. He is back playing with his club, there’s no conclusive evidence to leave him out at this stage,” said Southgate.

“I have to be very careful on being the moral