Ivan Toney was on target for England during the Three Lions’ penalty shootout success over Switzerland on Saturday that saw Gareth Southgate’s side progress to the semi-final of Euro 2024.

The Brentford forward has a 93 per cent success rate from the spot in regulation time, converting 28 of his 30 attempts in his career. Such a record can’t be reduced to luck; this is technique, self-belief and practice.

Toney’s now-renowned approach to penalties – a slow walk-up with his eyes fixed upon the goalkeeper – was not used during his time playing for Peterborough United.

So, what prompted his change in strategy?

“I started practicing this technique in training after the rule came out that keepers have to stay on the line,” he explained.

“Without giving too much away, the closer you are to the ball, the less time the goalkeeper has to react. When the keeper does react, it’s too late.

“You have to wait for the last step. If the keeper makes a move, you know where to put it; if he doesn’t move you have to pick a corner.”

Toney added: “Most penalties are missed as soon as the referee blows the whistle. People think, because the ref’s blown the whistle, the taker has to move quickly; the whistle being blown just means that you can take the penalty when you’re ready.

“I take a penalty when I’m ready, on my terms. Before, it was ‘hear the whistle, go!’ Now, I take longer.

"I don’t look at the ball, I just keep my eyes on the keeper. It is risky! Sometimes I think I’m going to hit it with my standing foot!”