Yesterday the professional footballer accepted breaking FA rules on betting, and could now potentially be banned from the sport for a significant period. Various publications have been speculating the length of the ban, many of which have reported it will last for six months.

Toney was charged with 232 alleged breaches of betting rules in November 2022, and a further 30 breaches the following month. FA rule E8 bans players from betting on matches, or sharing information for betting purposes.

“I was shocked and disappointed to see press speculation yesterday and today about the FA investigation process concerning me after I have been told by the FA that it is a confidential process until any decision has been made,” Toney posted on Instagram yesterday.

“It is especially disturbing for me to read that the FA is saying I shall be banned from football for six months before there has even been a hearing, and it does make me worried about the process.

“My lawyers will be writing to the FA to request that they conduct a leak inquiry as this is the second time stories have appeared in the newspapers - the last time was just before the selection of the England World Cup squad.

“As I continue to be told the investigation is meant to be confidential, I am unable to provide any further comment. I shall continue to concentrate on my football.”