England's striker, Toney, expressed his frustration at the lack of game time during Euro 2024

Ivan Toney, the England striker, has expressed his frustration at being brought on during injury time in the match against Slovakia. However, he remains determined to seize his opportunity whenever it comes. Toney made his Euro 2024 debut when he was sent on in the final seconds of the round of 16 games, with England trailing 1-0, SSP reported. Thanks to Jude Bellingham's spectacular overhead kick, the match went into extra time. It was during this period that Toney provided the critical assist to Harry Kane's winning goal.

Gareth Southgate, the England manager, stated after the game that Toney was "disgusted" at his late introduction. However, Toney himself has emphasized his readiness to contribute in any capacity at the Euros. Reflecting on the limited minutes he has received during the tournament, he acknowledged the challenges faced by all players who compete regularly for their clubs. Despite the frustrations, Toney remains focused on making the most of the opportunities that come his way.

While Toney enjoys an automatic starting role at his club, Brentford, he plays second fiddle to Kane in Southgate's one-striker system for England. Aware of the difficulties this presents, Toney has sought support from sports psychologists at his club to ensure he maintains emotional control and readiness for his national team. He acknowledged feeling annoyed by his late introduction against Slovakia but noted that his mindset had to shift quickly to concentrate on the game ahead.

Toney believes that substitutes, or "finishers" as he refers to them, play a crucial role in a team's success. He emphasized the need for all members, not just the starting eleven, to be prepared and contribute to the pursuit of victory in a tournament.

Toney and England are currently preparing for the quarter-final clash against Switzerland on Saturday in Dusseldorf. Originally, defender Luke Shaw was scheduled to appear in the media conference but was replaced by Toney at the last moment due to Shaw's ongoing recovery process. England's performances at Euro 2024 have faced criticism, despite the team reaching the quarter-finals for the fourth consecutive major tournament under Southgate's guidance.

Alan Shearer, former England striker and pundit, believes that Southgate now faces significant decisions and challenges. Shearer emphasizes the importance of England's players stepping up their game, asserting that their performance in the quarter-finals marks a crucial starting point for the team's journey in the competition.