Brentford reeling the departure of ‘unbelievable’ Ivan Toney – but Bryan Mbeumo proved he is ready to take on the mantle as the Bees cruised past Southampton
- Ivan Toney left Brentford on deadline day to join Saudi club Al-Ahli
- Bees proved they can do without star player in win over Southampton
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Thomas Frank himself described Ivan Toney as an ‘unbelievable’ striker for Brentford and called the English striker, who is leaving for Saudi Arabia, a club legend. How do you replace him now that he is gone?
It is useful that Brentford had a dress rehearsal for his departure last season after he was out of action for seven months due to a gambling ban.
Even after his return, Toney scored just four goals in 17 games, with the burden mostly on Bryan Mbeumo’s shoulders. He is actually improving with every game.
Mbeumo emerged from Toney’s shadow to become the focal point of Brentford’s attack, playing excellently together, causing chaos down the right and bringing out the best in his partners Yoane Wissa and Kevin Schade.
It seems like every pass forward now goes through him, whereas before it went through Toney. He seems to enjoy his responsibility, having scored three goals this season.
Bryan Mbeumo assured Brentford fans they could do without Ivan Toney with his performance on Saturday
The Cameroon international scored twice as Thomas Frank’s side secured a 3-1 victory over Southampton
Saturday’s dazzling display was no different. Two goals spoke of a player growing more confident in the final third, but his increasingly telepathic relationship with Wissa highlighted his all-round game.
Both made history by scoring in Brentford’s first two Premier League home games, something not even Toney could do.
“Ivan has been fantastic for us, but we have other very good players as well,” said Bees midfielder Mathias Jensen.
“He’s a huge character, so we’re obviously going to miss him. But there are plenty of other big characters in the team and it’s going to be exciting to see what the future holds.
“We’re very happy with Bryan who scored two goals today and Wissa one – it shows we have a lot of good attacking players. They’re good together and individually and they like each other off the pitch. Personally I think that helps.”