By Canadian Press

Insigne pulls out of MLS all-star skills challenge due to family medical situation

Aug 9, 2022 | 12:08 PM

TORONTO — A medical issue involving Italian star Lorenzo Insigne’s family promoted Toronto FC to delay its flight out of Nashville on the weekend.

Toronto coach Bob Bradley said Insigne “was made aware of a family health situation” after the team boarded its charter following Saturday’s 4-3 win over Nashville SC.

“We actually delayed out takeoff for 45 minutes just to make sure that he was comfortable with things at that moment,” Bradley said. “We got home and everything has been monitored since. But it’s very important that in this time he’s with his family. 

“I think everything’s going to be OK. But you could tell that he was upset and emotional. And everybody supports him.”

The 31-year-old Insigne, married with two sons, pulled out of the MLS all-star skills competition due to his family situation.

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The former Napoli captain, who opened his MLS scoring account in Nashville with a highlight-reel goal, had been scheduled to fly to Minneapolis for Tuesday’s all-star skills competition. The all-star game goes Wednesday, pitting MLS stars against a Liga MX all-star squad from Mexico.

Insigne was replaced by FC Cincinnati’s Brandon Vasquez in the all-star skills challenge which pits 10 MLS players against 10 LIGA MX players in five events.

Insigne took part in Toronto training Tuesday and looked at ease, walking out with a smile.

Fullback Richie Laryea, back with the club on loan from Nottingham Forest, was absent, having returned to England to complete his move. He is expected back in time for Saturday’s home game against the Portland Timbers.

Midfielders Mark-Anthony Kaye and Noble Okello, both returning from injury, worked out on their own while the rest of the team practised.

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This report by The Canadian Press was first published Aug. 9, 2022

Neil Davidson, The Canadian Press