Toronto FC forward Joao Plata to play for Ecuadorian national team

Toronto FC forward Joao Plata has been called by the Ecuadorian national team and will be available for two international friendly matches in the month of June.

"I’m very happy to receive the call, but it’s important to continue to be responsible and humble. It’s a blessing and I’m very happy," said Toronto FC forward Joao Plata. "My family taught me about being humble and having humility, we came from a lower status and worked our way up and it’s important for me to always remember that."

The Guayaquil, Ecudaor native was selected 49th overall in the 2011 MLS SuperDraft. In seven games this season, Plata has started in three, scoring two goals and adding two assists.

Ecuador will play Canada on June 1 at BMO Field in Toronto and then travel to New York to face Greece on June 7. Plata will join the national side in Toronto.