MILAN - Antonio Conte has recalled Toronto FC forward Sebastian Giovinco to the Italy squad for the upcoming European Champions qualifiers against Bulgaria and Malta.

Giovinco, who has scored 17 goals and set up another 12 since moving to Major League Soccer from Juventus, is one of nine foreign-based players in the 28-man squad.

The 28-year-old has won 21 caps for Italy but hasn't played for his country since a friendly match against Albania last November.

There is also a recall for Zenit St. Petersburg defender Domenico Criscito.

Italy hosts Malta in Florence on Thursday before playing Bulgaria in Palermo three days later.

Conte's team is second in Group H, a point behind Croatia and two ahead of Norway.