England striker Ivan Toney pleads not guilty to headbutting and punching man at Soho nightclub
From the Newshound archive · first published 1 October 2026 · last updated 2 October 2026.
Ivan Toney, 30, denied assault occasioning actual bodily harm at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Thursday morning, electing for a Crown Court trial before a judge and jury. The charge relates to an alleged attack on Saber Da Silva at the 100 Wardour Street club on December 6 last year, in which Toney allegedly lunged forward and headbutted Da Silva before throwing several punches. Toney was freed on unconditional bail until a hearing at Southwark Crown Court on October 29. His spokesperson said he is 'naturally shocked' but 'looks forward to being given the opportunity to clear his name in court.'
Prosecutor Tom Heslop told the hearing the two men 'squared up' before Toney allegedly headbutted and punched Da Silva.
Toney represented England at this summer's World Cup but has been left out of the latest Nations League squad.
The Al-Ahli striker arrived at court flanked by three members of his entourage, wearing a black top over a shirt and tie.