Brentford head coach Thomas Frank has claimed that Ivan Toney is edging closer to becoming regarded as 'a world-class striker'.
Before the start of last season, Toney had made just two appearances in the Premier League, both of which came for Newcastle United in 2015-16.
However, the 26-year-old now has 20 goals from 43 top-flight outings for Brentford, his latest double coming in Friday's 2-0 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion.
The first of those strikes saw Toney expertly flick the ball into the far bottom corner after a low cutback had been slightly behind him.
Toney's second came from the penalty spot, the Englishman now having converted 25 of his 26 spot kicks throughout his career.
Despite his recent international call-up not leading to a debut for Gareth Southgate's squad, Toney's latest performance will only increase calls for his inclusion on the plane to Qatar.
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Frank has backed up those suggestions by stating that Toney is close to becoming viewed as one of the best forwards in the world, providing that he remains on his current trajectory.
Speaking to Sky Sports, the Dane said: "I think he's getting closer and closer, that's for sure. I think you can see that his link-up play is so good, he can read the game very well. His technical ability to either flick or hold or set the ball is very good.
"I always say that if you want to create a top scorer then they need to be technically very good so the way he can connect with the ball, left-foot, right-foot, the free kick against Leeds, the chip, he's so good technically. He's just got that character about him as well.
"He's one of the big leaders without a doubt. I have four captains and Ivan is a big driver also on the pitch, big demands to himself and his teammates but in that perfect balance where he's very competitive but with a big smile. Of course a lot of banter and joking but caring about his teammates."
Toney's form has led to speculation regarding a potential move to a bigger club with Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur both said to be monitoring the situation.
Meanwhile, Brentford are said to be prepared to extend Toney's current contract past the end of the 2024-25 campaign.
Darren Plant
