IVAN TONEY cannot train at Brentford until September 17 — but he has a potential Plan B.
England striker Toney is not allowed anywhere near a football pitch until he has served half of his eight-month ban for betting.
Yet the FA confirmed his suspension is only for football.
So, in theory, Toney is free to join another sports team to maintain fitness.
This is in contrast to a World Anti-Doping Agency ban where stars are barred from all sports.
So, in an effort to keep fit, Toney could have pre-season with a rugby side as their core fitness sessions are fundamentally similar to football.
The ban infuriated both Brentford boss Thomas Frank and England manager Gareth Southgate.
They understand Toney should not be allowed to play games but do not accept the block on training.
Southgate said at the time: “Not being allowed to play is one thing but not being allowed to be within the football community, we have to be really careful how we do that.
“He accepted the punishment. What bothers me is we must look after people. He’s injured, what does he do about getting fit?
“How do we give him structure over the next few months so he can be a better person at the end?
“I don’t like the idea we leave somebody so they aren’t allowed to be part of the football community.
“I don’t think that’s how the best rehabilitation programmes would work.
“I’m not questioning the decision on the ban. I’m thinking about the player and how I help them.”
Remember to gamble responsibly
A responsible gambler is someone who:
