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Topics: Ivan Toney, Saudi Pro League, Saudi Arabia, Brentford
Jack Kenmare
Topics: Ivan Toney, Saudi Pro League, Saudi Arabia, Brentford
Al Ahli manager Matthias Jaissle has publicly responded to criticism over Ivan Toney's performances in the Saudi Pro League.
Toney, who joined Al Ahli from Brentford in the summer for around £40 million, has scored four goals in 13 appearances for the Jeddah-based club.
Given how prolific he was for Brentford during his four-year spell with the Bees, it has been a relatively slow start to life in Saudi for England international Toney.
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He netted a brace early on against Damac in the Saudi Pro League but Toney has largely struggled in front of goal – something that Jaissle was questioned about after their 2-0 victory over Al Raed on Friday.
When asked about criticism of his performances, he replied: "Toney is a new player to the team, and new signings often face challenges. We will work more with him during the break to fully integrate him into the team."
A new report has provided an insight into how Toney is finding life in Saudi.
Toney is living in Jeddah, a place he has compared to Milton Keynes, where he used to live during his spell at Peterborough.
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The former Newcastle forward apparently sees similarities in the way in which the roads are aligned with modern buildings
A friend of Toney's told The Sun: "Ivan is loving life there because it reminds him of MK. They have the same system of roads and buildings. If it wasn’t for the sunshine, you could think you were in Buckinghamshire."
Toney is believed to be "idolised" in Jeddah and is enjoying spending "quality time with the family" when not playing.
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Toney was linked with numerous clubs in the summer, including long-term admirers Manchester United, who decided against bidding for the striker.
According to ESPN, Erik ten Hag did not believe Toney fit the specific tactical demands he was seeking in a forward.
He also doubted the player's pressing ability and therefore United decided against making a formal move. Instead, United opted to sign Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna for a fee thought to be in the region of £35 million.