Sebastian Giovinco Called Up For Italy, Will Miss Match Against New York Red Bulls

Sebastian Giovinco has played a crucial role in Toronto FC's quest for a first ever playoff spot, and now he will get a chance to make sure his country accomplishes their own targets. Italy needs just one more win to ensure they qualify automatically for Euro 2016, but will also be looking to top their group.

Toronto FC's designated player has been called up for Italy's final pair of qualifying games, against Azerbaijan and Norway on October 10 and 13 respectively. Norway is only two points behind Italy, making that match crucial for the Italians, currently on 18 points, to win the group.

The Italian's performance in Major League Soccer this season made it difficult for Antonio Conte not to call him up. He has 21 goals and 15 assists, and is the favourite to earn the league's MVP award at the end of the season.

Conte had previously called up Giovinco for Italy's last set of Euro 2016 qualifiers, when they defeated Malta and Bulgaria both 1-0. However, an injury in a match against the Montreal Impact forced Giovinco to miss the callup.

Giovinco has played in 28 games in his career for the Italian national team. He has only scored once for his national team, in the 2013 Confederation's Cup against Japan.

The Toronto FC forward will be looking to use the opportunity to impress Conte, and further his chances of playing for Italy should they reach the full Euro 2016 tournament.

As a result of the timing of the Norway game, Sebastian Giovinco is highly unlikely to play in Toronto FC's next home game, when they take on the New York Red Bulls on October 14. Even if he could get back to Toronto in time, risking him in such a game would be unwise. 

The timing of Giovinco's departure will be difficult for Toronto FC, as they will need all the points they can get against Eastern Conference opposition to ensure their first ever playoff game is played at home.