Thomas Frank Criticizes Ivan Toney’s Harsh Gambling Ban Conditions, Compares It to Jail
Brentford boss Thomas Frank has denounced the strict conditions imposed on Ivan Toney following his ban.
The striker was banned from football for eight months for breaching Football Association betting rules.
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Toney was recently out of action for the Bees with a hamstring injury but can’t train with his teammates for four months.
The FA released written reasons for his ban on Friday, with the 27-year-old diagnosed as a gambling addict.
After his suspension began, England boss Gareth Southgate said he would offer his support to the striker, even if it risked him being banned.
Frank agreed with the Three Lions manager and said: “I’m perfect with Gareth [Southgate]. I think that was a fantastic point he brought up. Yes, Ivan did something wrong and was punished for it.
“What I don’t understand at all is how not to let him get involved in football for the first four months?
“What do you get out of it? If you want to rehabilitate people, give them an education. Now it’s like, there’s a penalty, leave it to yourself, find out, die or survive.
“It’s not just Ivan. He is an example for everyone in the world of football. We also need to review the relationship between football and gambling. I do not have the answer.
“I don’t think it’s me who should answer that question. There is no doubt for me, the first four months, he should be forced to go to 100 schools, talk about his career, football, everything. I think that’s how it should work.
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“I will go down the same lines as Gareth Southgate. If I can’t talk to him, I guess they’ll have to ban me as well.
“If I’m not allowed to talk to him on a support level, there must be something wrong. I think you’re even allowed to contact people in prison, so I guess I have the right. “
After an impressive season which saw him score 21 goals for Brentford, Toney is set to return to action in January.
The bees also pledged their support and pledged to help him with his gambling addiction.
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