Image source, PA Media Image caption, Ivan Toney has had four caps for England and came on as a substitute against Slovakia
Kris Holland and Pete Cooper
BBC News, Northamptonshire
England striker Ivan Toney said it was a "good feeling" that his home town was behind him during Euro 2024.
The 28-year-old came off the bench to assist Harry Kane for the winning goal in extra time which enabled England to beat Slovakia to reach the last eight.
Toney, who started his career at Northampton Town, is the first senior men's player from town to represent England.
"I feel like I've come a long way and [I'm] just enjoying the journey," he said.
The Brentford forward made his England debut in 2-0 win over Ukraine at Wembley Stadium in March last year.
He then scored his first goal for England later that month with a penalty in a 2-2 draw with Belgium.
Speaking on England's YouTube channel,, external he was asked how it felt to be the first senior men's player from Northampton.
He said: "It's a good feeling. It's a massive feeling, actually. I'm trying my best to do what I can do.
"It's nice to know people from Northampton are backing me all the way. It's a good feeling."
Having grown up in the Eastfield district of the town, Toney made his debut for the Cobblers in 2012, making 60 appearances after graduating from the club's academy.
He joined Premier League Newcastle United in 2015 but made only four appearances before joining Peterborough United in League One where he helped them to promotion.
Brentford signed Toney in 2020 and he then scored a Championship-record 31 goals as the Bees went up through the play-offs.
He return to playing for West London club earlier this year after an eight-month suspension because of breaching betting rules.
England takes on Switzerland in the quarter-finals of Euro 2024 on Saturday at 17:00 BST.
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