Ivan Toney will play for Brentford in a behind-closed-doors friendly on Tuesday as the banned striker steps up his fitness ahead of competitive return

• The Brentford striker is currently serving an eight-month ban from football
• But will be allowed to play for Brentford in a friendly fixture on Tuesday
• Click HERE to listen to the latest episode of Mail Sport’s ‘It’s All Kicking Off’

Ivan Toney will make his return to action on Tuesday after Brentford received FA clearance to field him in behind closed doors friendlies.

Striker Toney is into the second part of his eight-month ban for breaching FA betting rules and has not played since playing the full game against Liverpool in May.

During the first four months Toney, who was also fined £50,000, was unable to train with his teammates though he was permitted to attend the training ground for treatment as he underwent rehab on a hamstring injury.

That first period ended on September 17 and Toney was able to return to training with the rest of Thomas Frank’s squad. 

He returned fit following the hamstring problem which limited his involvement before his ban kicked in in May.

Ivan Toney is set to make his return to the pitch for Brentford in a behind-closed-doors friendly

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Toney’s suspension from playing competitively ends on January 16 and Brentford have mapped out an individual training plan for the remainder of his time out to get him ready for that date, including the striker getting some game time under his belt. 

Brentford had to check with the FA before arranging a match as part of Toney’s comeback bid and the two parties agree on what would be permitted under the terms of his punishment and be considered reasonable given he is allowed to train with teammates again.

Rules were put in place such as any games he plays in only being behind closed doors, no supporters being allowed to attend and only staff from the two involved clubs being present.

Subsequently both sides were also under orders to keep details of opponents and the location under wraps.

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