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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Sport
Dom Smith

Thomas Frank hopes Ivan Toney's Brentford exit is confirmed soon

Thomas Frank says he will not miss being asked about Ivan Toney should the striker leave Brentford, and hopes an exit can soon be sorted.

Toney was left out of the Bees’ squad for their 2-1 win over Crystal Palace on Sunday amid uncertainty over his future. Standard Sport understands Saudi Pro League side Al Ahli have made an offer for Toney.

Frank was unsure if Toney watched on at the Gtech Community Stadium as Brentford beat Crystal Palace, but confirmed at least one club is interested in signing the striker.

In Toney’s absence, Yoane Wissa and Bryan Mbeumo scored the goals that gave Brentford three points in their Premier League opener.

Yoane Wissa scored the winner in Ivan Toney’s absence (Action Images via Reuters)

“Various things are going on with Ivan, with transfer rumours and activity. Because of all that full package, we decided to not include him in the squad,” Frank said. “That was the club and me. That [decision] was made on Thursday. We thought it was the best thing. Ivan is on board, so no problem.

“Like with all good players, one day they will leave the club. Every single time Ivan has not played, Wissa has stepped up. Of course, you want your season to start well and you’re pleased when your attacking players are performing. I thought Bryan, Wissa and Kevin [Schade] were a constant threat today.”

Asked whether Toney has played his final game for the club, Frank replied: “That we never know. I’ve been in football long enough that you never know what’s going to happen in the future. No, I don’t think [it will end sourly]. Ivan is committed and has been for four years.

“It [a deal] is not close, but we hope it will be. I will always miss Ivan as a player and as a person, but in terms of all the questions you ask about him, I won’t [miss those], no.”

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