Ex-Northampton Town quartet heading to the 2026 FIFA World Cup
When the 2026 FIFA World Cup gets underway across the United States, Canada and Mexico this summer, Northampton Town supporters will have more than a passing interest in the tournament.
Four former Cobblers players will be representing their nations on football’s grandest stage, providing yet another reminder of the remarkable journeys that have started, or passed through, Sixfields over the years.
From academy graduates to loan signings and breakthrough talents, Ivan Toney, Kenji Gorré, Carney Chukwuemeka and Tete Yengi will all be carrying a little bit of Northampton with them as they compete in the world’s biggest sporting event.
Ivan Toney – England
The headline name for Cobblers supporters is undoubtedly Ivan Toney.
Signed from Northampton’s academy ranks, Toney made his first-team debut as a teenager in 2012 and quickly established himself as one of the club’s brightest prospects. During his time at Sixfields he scored 13 goals in 60 appearances before earning a move to Newcastle United in 2015.
Since then his rise has been extraordinary. After prolific spells with Peterborough United and Brentford, Toney has become one of English football’s most feared forwards and now finds himself in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for the World Cup.
For those who watched him emerge from the academy at Northampton, seeing him wear the Three Lions at a World Cup is a moment of immense pride.
Kenji Gorré – Curaçao
Kenji Gorré’s spell with Northampton Town may have been brief, but it was memorable.
The winger arrived on loan from Swansea City during the 2015-16 season and played his part as Chris Wilder’s side stormed to the League Two title. His pace, flair and direct running made him a popular figure during a campaign that remains one of the greatest in the club’s modern history.
Now representing Curaçao on the international stage, Gorré has become a key figure for the Caribbean nation. Curaçao’s qualification for the World Cup has been one of the stories of the tournament and Gorré will be eager to showcase his talents against some of the biggest nations in world football.
Carney Chukwuemeka – Austria
Born in Austria but raised in Northampton, Carney Chukwuemeka’s connection to the town runs deep.
Before rising through Aston Villa’s academy and later moving to Chelsea and Borussia Dortmund, Chukwuemeka spent much of his childhood in Northampton. He represented England throughout the youth age groups and captained the Young Lions to European Under-19 Championship success.
In a surprise move earlier this year, Chukwuemeka switched his international allegiance to Austria and has quickly become part of Ralf Rangnick’s plans for the World Cup. His inclusion means another Northampton-connected footballer will be appearing on the biggest stage of all.
At just 22 years old, this tournament could be the first of several World Cups for the talented midfielder.
Tete Yengi – Australia
Tete Yengi’s time at Sixfields came during the 2023-24 season when he arrived on loan from Ipswich Town.
The powerful striker quickly became a fan favourite thanks to his work-rate, athleticism and infectious enthusiasm. He scored crucial goals during Northampton’s League One campaign and showed plenty of potential before returning to his parent club.
Now an Australian international, Yengi heads to the World Cup with the Socceroos after continuing his development in the professional game. He even announced himself with a goal on his international debut in Australia’s final warm-up match before the tournament.
For Cobblers supporters, it is another example of a player who left a lasting impression at Sixfields before progressing onto the international stage.
And wherever their World Cup journeys take them, they’ll all share one thing in common – a chapter in the proud history of Northampton Town Football Club.