Frank hails ‘special’ Toney after 20th goal

By

Ivan Toney’s goal in Brentford’s 3-2 win over Bristol City made him the third player in successive seasons to hit at least 20 goals for the club in the Championship.

Two seasons ago Neal Maupay scored 25 in the league for the Bees – a total matched by Ollie Watkins last season.

Head coach Thomas Frank was full of praise for Toney’s contribution so far this term – and was keen to point out there is more to the striker’s game than just goals.


“Ivan is a special, special player,” said Frank.

“That goal he scored today – if you just pick out one of Ivan’s goals this season, that one is him.

“He showed top positioning in the box, which is what we work with him on, but also he read cleverly (where to go) off the shoulder of the second central defender and showed perfect timing to get in front of him – and then a one touch, perfect finish, just fantastic.

“But it is also his work ethic which is so important. Defending from the number nine backwards is key for me and there is so much more about him that he brings to the squad.”

Frank was pleased with how the Bees hit back to win, and go second in the Championship table, after conceding an early goal against the Robins.

He said: “We did all we could to make sure we were ready for the game, and we were ready, but they put a very well delivered ball into the area so well played Bristol. We can’t go through a season and not go behind sometimes.

“I thought in the first half we didn’t have control enough of the game, we rushed it too much and going into half-time at 1-1 was a fair result at that time.

“But in the first 25 minutes of the second half, we looked absolutely amazing, scored two fantastic goals and were totally in control.

“We know on our day we play some decent football, but what we have now is the foundation of every top football team – a top attitude where we are confident but humble.

“We have a big task ahead of us but we are working extra hard – and hard work is the key. We need togetherness, and that brings a good performance more or less every single time.”

Josh Dasilva missed the match with a minor hip injury.

“We hope he will be fit for Saturday (at Middlesbrough) but will take it day-by-day. However, Bryan Mbeumo will be ready for that game,” Frank said.