Toronto FC: Not worth risking Sebastian Giovinco versus Colorado

With Sebastian Giovinco questionable, Toronto FC are best to give him the weekend off, despite being without some of their core players.

Well, Wednesday night proved to be slightly more eventful than Toronto FC expected. Their game versus New York City seemed to have it all.

There was controversy. A red card. An injury time equalizer. And on top of all this, Sebastian Giovinco had to leave the action with a lower back bruise.

As a result, Giovinco is questionable for this weekend’s clash with the Colorado Rapids. He was able to get through three quarters of Friday’s training session, before heading back inside for more treatment.

Understandably, coach Greg Vanney is hopeful the 2015 MLS MVP is ready to against Colorado. Speaking to Neil Davidson and other members of The Canadian Press after training on Friday, Vanney said:

"“We’ll see how he’s feeling (Saturday) and get him moving around. He’s doing much better today than he was yesterday.”"

Gionvico has already missed five games this season with various injuries, so why risk him on Saturday? Toronto FC don’t play again until next Sunday – the extra rest could be invaluable to the Italian.

In addition, TFC have bigger challenges and more important games ahead of them. There should be little doubt they will still be in the mix, come playoff time.

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As usual though when it comes to the Reds, it’s not quite that straightforward. Despite their heralded strength in depth, they will already be without two of their core players when they take the field against the Rapids.

That’s because Michael Bradley and Jozy Altidore are both currently away on international duty. Throw in the fact Giovinco leads the team in scoring and it makes sense why Vanney is eager to play him.

It also doesn’t help that Vanney himself will not be on the sidelines, after being sent off on Wednesday night. Initially, he was told he’d avoided a one-game, before the league bizarrely changed their minds.

Overall though, Toronto FC would still be best served giving Giovinco the night off. However, it will be tough to blame them, if they do decide to play the three-time MLS All-Star.

Next: Greg Vanney prediction becomes a reality

If you’re in charge, what are you doing with Giovinco this weekend? Do you play him if he’s ready to go, put him on the subs bench versus Colorado, or be cautious and rest him altogether? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.