Ivan Toney was thrilled to mark his long-awaited return with a goal as Brentford claimed a precious 3-2 home win over Nottingham Forest.

The England international — playing his first game since serving an eight-month ban for breaking gambling rules — netted with his first effort via a low free-kick, cancelling out Danilo's spectacular opener.

Ben Mee's bullet header put the hosts ahead shortly after the break before in-form forward Chris Wood's deft flick levelled the scores yet again.

But it was the Bees who had the last laugh with Neal Maupay firing home a clever half-volley to give his side all three points.

After the win, Toney, 27, spoke of his relief to be back on the pitch and on the scoresheet.

He said: "It was a long time coming. I manifested this win when I was at home during the time I was out.

"I am here now and buzzing to be back scoring goals and winning with the team. 

"I 100% knew this would happen again. I manifest things like this. 

"Before the game, before I left my house, I thought, 'We're winning today and I'm scoring'. And I made it happen, which is good." 

Thomas Frank could hardly have hoped for his talisman to return at a better time, with his side having lost their previous five Premier League fixtures.

For Toney, a gruelling first 90 minutes of effort felt worthwhile upon hearing the full-time whistle.

He said: "I felt it a bit coming into the 70th minute. I had to get a gel!

"But listen, the adrenaline, the fans screaming and knowing you are in a winning position — there is no better feeling. No better feeling. 

"We have been playing well, and have been grafting. Even though we have been losing, we have been grafting, and we fully deserved it. 

"And I'm glad for Neal [Maupay] to get the winner because he works so well in training, we've got a good partnership and I'm sure we'll score many goals together."