England's Ivan Toney to stand trial during Euro 2028 after denying assault charge

Trial scheduled for 12 June 2028, effectively ruling him out of Euro 2028 which takes place in UK and Ireland during the group stage.

Ivan Toney appeared at Southwark Crown Court on 29 October 2026 to confirm his not guilty plea to assault occasioning actual bodily harm. The England striker is accused of head-butting and punching Saber Da Silva at a Soho nightclub on 6 December 2025. His trial has been scheduled for 12 June 2028, a date that falls during the Euro 2028 group stage.

Judge Hehir apologised for the 20-month delay, citing pressure on the crown courts. Toney was released on unconditional bail and warned of the consequences of failing to attend trial. The prosecutor alleged that Toney and Da Silva exchanged words before Toney "lunged forward and head-butted the complainant, followed by a few punches", with Da Silva sustaining injuries to his nose and fingers.

Toney, who plays for Saudi Pro League club Al-Ahli, was part of England's 2026 World Cup squad under Thomas Tuchel but was not selected for the Nations League fixtures in September and October. It appears unlikely Tuchel would select him for Euro 2028 while facing a criminal trial during the tournament.