Toronto FC: Salcedo-Soteldo swap deal, Giovinco update and more
By Paul Taylor
Giovinco returns to action for TFC in pre-season
When Toronto FC announced their preseason roster last Thursday, Sebastian Giovinco’s inclusion undoubtedly stood out. He had made it clear for weeks he would like a return to the team before he retires.
The central issue however has been money, with TFC maintaining Giovinco was asking for too much. The fact he accepted an invitation to train at pre-season camp alludes to a change in his stance.
President Bill Manning recently discussed this aspect with the media, including Neil Davidson of The Canadian Press. As per CBC Sports, Manning said:
"“I have a lot of respect for Sebastian in that he’s made it clear to us that he would like to finish his career in Toronto in the right way and we’re very respectful of that. He’s made it clear to us that it’s not about money right now and that clears a big hurdle.”"
Of course, it’s not just as simple as Giovinco and TFC wanting a reunion. Will the Italian still produce at a good enough level full stop, never mind return with anything close to the level of success he enjoyed during his previous MLS stint?
With this in mind, the Reds decided it was best to offer an invitation to camp at this stage. It stands to reason new head coach Bob Bradley and his staff first want to see what the recently-turned 35-year-old can still offer.
Giovinco got his first chance to prove himself in TFC’s pre-season opener, which was a 5-4 loss to the Los Angeles Galaxy. He saw 30 minutes of action as he aims to maintain his fitness; expect him to see increased playing time as the pre-season progresses.