India, Oct. 1 -- England international striker Ivan Toney has pleaded not guilty to an assault charge stemming from an alleged late-night altercation at a nightclub in central London last December.

The 30-year-old forward, who currently plays for Saudi Pro League club Al-Ahli, stood in the dock at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Thursday morning to formally deny the allegation.

Rather than having the matter dealt with summarily in the lower court, Toney elected to face a full trial before a judge and jury at the Crown Court.

What Happened Inside Westminster Magistrates' Court?

Dressed in a black top over a shirt and tie, Toney arrived at the central London courthouse shortly after 9:30 AM accompanied by members of his entourage.

St...