TORONTO – As the weekend comes to a close, the Audi 2017 MLS Cup Playoffs draw ever closer.

Toronto FC finished up yet another training session on Sunday morning with an eye towards the first leg at MAPFRE Stadium where Columbus Crew SC await in the Eastern Conference Championship.

Given the 16-day layoff between the end of the Conference semi-final and the start of the Conference Championship, both sides have had ample time to rest up and prepare for Tuesday’s first leg. But with Sebastian Giovinco suspended and Jozy Altidore’s red card appeal sorted, the Reds have turned their focus to prepare for Columbus with the pieces at their disposal.

Boasting depth throughout the squad, head coach Greg Vanney once again touted his options come Tuesday night.

“The key is that guys who get an opportunity have to step up and do their job,” he told reporters on Sunday afternoon. “Whoever it is, we’ll have to keep in mind what their strengths are and build the attack around their strengths.

Despite missing their top two goal scorers from the regular season, captain Michael Bradley is confident that the team’s preparation will see them through in a tough environment.

“If they are so aggressive and throw caution to the wind, then our ability to play on the counter attack is something we’ve shown we’re quite good at,” he said. “We feel very good about the way we’ve prepared for this game.”

Hear from Vanney and Bradley following Sunday’s training session.

Greg Vanney

Michael Bradley