Thomas Tuchel’s England squad revealed a surprise inclusion: striker Ivan Toney, back after a 12‑month international hiatus. The 30‑year‑old Al‑Ahli forward made only an 88th‑minute cameo against Senegal under Tuchel last year, yet earned a place alongside Harry Kane. His recall adds depth to a striking department that has been thin all season.

Toney arrives on the back of a prolific Saudi Pro League spell, netting 55 goals in 62 games and finishing the season second in the domestic scoring chart with 32 goals in 32 appearances. His Premier League record of 36 goals in 85 matches approximates a goal every other game, and his penalty‑taking proved decisive in Euro 2024’s shootout win over Switzerland.

Tuchel believes Toney’s box presence, physicality and set‑piece threat will relieve pressure on Kane when England chase games, especially in the hot conditions of the North‑American World Cup. The striker’s £40m move to Al‑Ahli in August 2024 underlines his confidence and fitness levels. England open Group L against Croatia on 17 June, with Toney now a viable option off the bench.