Juventus starlet Sebastian Giovinco believes Giorgio Chiellini’s sending off against Chelsea cost his side a place in the Champions League quarter finals.

The Bianconeri crashed out of Europe following the 2-2 draw on Tuesday night. Giovinco, who came on to replace Vincenzo Iaquinta, was outstanding. However, despite dominating most of the play, Juve were reduced to 10 men after Chiellini went through rather hard on Didier Drogba. The challenge didn’t seem worthy of a second yellow, a decision which cost the Italians dearly, according to the 22-year-old.

“I think we played a great game, but we were harshly penalised with the sending off of Chiellini,” Giovinco told La Gazzetta Dello Sport.

“However, this is football and I don’t think we deserved to draw on the night.

“I think the whole game changed when the referee sent off Chiellini as we were far superior to them [Chelsea] up until that point.

“I think we deserved more from the ties over two legs. We did our maximum, but this if football.”

With Juventus out of Europe, the main priority will be to try and catch Serie A leaders Inter.

“We have to focus on the league now. I am happy with the way I have been playing. Now let’s see what happens,” concluded the Italian.