Cobblers boss Wilder: We need Toney fit and firing

Toney travelled with Town to Brackley last Saturday and was put through his paces before the 3-0 Maunsell Cup final win.

But he played no part in the match amid ongoing transfer speculation, with Wilder confirming there has been more interest from Premier League and Championship clubs.

Toney was the subject of a bid from Wolverhampton Wanderers last November and Newcastle United recently opened talks with Cobblers about acquiring his services.

And there could also be other interested parties as the 19-year-old, who has scored 13 goals in 60 appearances for Northampton, continues to attract attention.

But should Toney not leave Sixfields in the near future, Cobblers will be keen to see him help them start the new Sky Bet League Two campaign in style.

And Wilder is desperate to ensure one of his prized assets is in peak condition ahead of the opening game of the season, at Bristol Rovers on August 8.

“Things are ongoing, I’m led to believe, but Ivan was back at training yesterday (Monday) and he will train all the way through the week until I’m notified otherwise,” Wilder said.

“We feel we made the right decision in leaving him out on Saturday but he’s back with us and we’ll see what develops this week.

“Anything can happen in football, you’re never surprised, but we’ll work Ivan and get him as fit as we possibly can because if he doesn’t go he’s still our player.

“He’s an excellent player and someone who brings definite quality to the group at the top of the pitch.”