Tuchel Defends Toney's England Call-Up: 'He Deserves It'

Tuchel Explains Toney's England Call-Up: 'He Deserves to Be With Us' LONDON, May 23, 2025 – England football manager Thomas Tuchel has defended his decision to include Ivan Toney in the national squad, despite the striker playing in Saudi Arabia. In an exclusive interview with Sky Sports News, Tuchel stated, “Ivan deserves to be with us. I’m convinced because he scored over 20 goals for Al-Ahli this season.” Tuchel’s comments address the significant media attention surrounding Toney’s inclusion. He explained his reasoning, emphasizing the importance of observing new players firsthand: “It’s a good occasion to also test new players, see new players, meet Ivan in person, see him in the environment.” The decision to include Toney alongside Harry Kane and Ollie Watkins reflects Tuchel’s strategy of evaluating different player dynamics. Tuchel also revealed plans to visit Toney in Saudi Arabia, demonstrating a commitment to assessing his performance in person. The interview offers a glimpse into the complexities of international team selection and the importance of evaluating players within their playing environment. Tuchel’s thoughtful approach underscores his dedication to building a successful England squad.