THOMAS TUCHEL says Ivan Toney deserves his place in the England squad after surprisingly recalling the Saudi Arabia-based striker.

After kicking off his reign with World Cup qualification wins against Albania and Latvia, the head coach is preparing for June’s Group K game against Andorra and City Ground friendly at home to Senegal.

Tuchel plumped for a 26-man selection for his second camp in charge, with Toney, 29, called up for the first time since leaving Brentford for Al-Ahli after helping England reach the Euro 2024 final.

The striker has scored 29 goals in 43 matches in all competitions for the Saudi side, who he recently helped to win the AFC Champions League Elite competition.

“Ivan deserves to be with us, I think,” Tuchel said. “I’m convinced because he scored over 20 goals for Al-Ahli this season.

“He’s won a major title with the Asian Champions League, had a big involvement in the team with goals and assists and a huge contribution.

“I told you last time that I will try to put a visit in my schedule to see him in Saudi, but I didn’t make it so I thought ‘why not bring him over and let him travel to us?'”

As Toney returns to the fold, Chelsea centre-back Trevoh Chalobah is involved with England for the first time with the likes of Marc Guehi and John Stones injured.