England striker Ivan Toney is set to face trial over an alleged assault in the summer of 2028, during the European football championships.
Toney, 30, is accused of headbutting and punching Saber Da Silva during a confrontation at a Soho nightclub on 6 December last year.
The Al-Ahli player appeared at Southwark Crown Court on Thursday morning and formally entered a not guilty plea to a charge of assault occasioning actual bodily harm.
A provisional trial date was set for the same court on 12 June 2028 by Judge Christopher Hehir, who told the defendant he was "sorry" about the delay.
Judge Hehir said: "That's a long way in advance and I'm sorry about that.
"As you may know, the crown courts are operating under a great deal of pressure.
"We have got a massive backlog of work for various reasons."
Euro 2028 is scheduled to begin on 9 June at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff.
It is not yet known if Toney is in England boss Thomas Tuchel's plans for the tournament, but the trial is scheduled to overlap.
The former Brentford, Newcastle and Peterborough footballer arrived at court wearing black sunglasses, grey trousers and a button-up jacket over a shirt and tie.
He scored 72 goals for Brentford before his surprise move to the Saudi Pro League in 2024 with Al-Ahli.
Toney was released on unconditional bail following Thursday's hearing.
At an earlier hearing, it was heard the alleged assault happened at the 100 Wardour Street club during a confrontation between the defendant and Mr Da Silva.
It was heard they "squared up to each other" before Toney allegedly "lunged forward and headbutted the complainant, followed by a few punches".
Toney represented England at this summer's World Cup and has made 10 international appearances, scoring one goal.
He missed out on a place in the latest squad for the country's Nations League fixtures.
(c) Sky News 2026: England striker Ivan Toney set to face trial during Euro 2028 over alleged assault
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