Ivan Toney is set to return to Brentford training on Monday following a four-month absence as his ban rules ease.

Toney cannot feature in a competitive game until 17 January 2024, but head coach Thomas Frank revealed that a plan is in place for last season’s 21-goal striker.

“He will be able to join the group, of course,” said Frank. “We have made a plan for him for the next 16 weeks, and that will change once we get closer to when he can play in the team.

“We’ll try to work on his strength and some other areas for development. It’s longer than a six-week pre-season, so there is time. He knows that we want the best for him, and that we are there for him.

Frank continued: “For us it’s very good to have him back. He’s a very good player, but more importantly an important person to have around the group. He’s training hard, he’s very positive and he’ll bring a lot of energy.

“He’s very happy to be allowed to come back in and play football and to be around his team-mates.

“It will give us a lift. Of course, we’d prefer to have him in the team, but that’s not possible. To have him with us every day is going to be positive, definitely.

“I’m proud of Ivan, massively – the journey he’s been on, the resilience he’s shown throughout his life and the progress he’s made. He should be an example for a lot of footballers, with what he’s achieved.”