Toronto FC’s Sebastian Giovinco has been ruled out for Saturday’s match in Vancouver due to a contusion to his illiotibial band, sustained midway through last weekend’s 2-2 draw in Philadelphia.

The Atomic Ant suffered the injury in first-half stoppage-time last weekend when Philly’s Oguchi Onyewu came through his back for a tackle. Giovinco was helped off the pitch and replaced by Tosaint Ricketts.

The Toronto Sun understands the 2015 MVP has since returned to Italy to see his personal physician in a pre-scheduled trip he’d planned to take during next week’s international break.

It’s not believed Giovinco is seeking treatment for the contusion he suffered last week.

Coach Greg Vanney told the Toronto Sun following the match in Philly that Giovinco’s injury isn’t serious.

“When that tightens up it’s difficult to move with any freedom,” Vanney said, adding that he’s not sure his star players are being protected.

“The league talks about protecting players people come to watch,” Vanney added. “I don’t know if I can say they’ve been protected enough.

“If we want to keep the best players on the field, we need to make sure they’re getting the proper coverage from the officiating side. I think teams are looking to play very physical with our forwards.”

The Reds travel to BC Place on Saturday to take on the Whitecaps.

Giovinco is expected to return for Toronto FC's home opener.