Lionel Messi in hamstring injury scare as Argentina ace skips training

Argentina will be holding their breath over the fitness of captain Lionel Messi after he missed training on Thursday with a hamstring issue. With the 2022 World Cup final against France just three days away, Messi isn’t at 100 per cent after picking up a knock in the semi-final win against Croatia.

The 35-year-old talisman has unsurprisingly been the heart of Argentina’s run to the final, picking up four Man of the Match awards from his six World Cup games. And he stole the show again as Lionel Scaloni’s side breezed past Croatia 3-0 to book a date with destiny at the Lusail Iconic Stadium in Qatar on Sunday.

However, in the early stages against Croatia, he appeared to be struggling with a hamstring injury, massaging his left thigh off the ball as he surveyed the pitch. The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner battled on, though, netting the opening goal from the penalty spot before producing an incredible assist to set up Julian Alvarez’s second.

Playing on while carrying a hamstring injury has taken a toll on his condition ahead of this weekend’s blockbuster showdown with reigning champions France. According to Foot Mercato, Messi wasn’t present at Argentina’s training session on Thursday as he’s suffering discomfort in his left hamstring.

JUST IN: Man City plot double signing as Pep Guardiola eyes World Cup heroes

We’ll be bringing you the very latest updates, pictures and video on this breaking news story.
For the latest news and breaking news visit: express.co.uk/sport/football
Stay up to date with all the big headlines, pictures, analysis, opinion and video on the stories that matter to you.
Follow us on Twitter @dexpress_sport – the official Daily Express & Express.co.uk Twitter account – providing real news in real time.
We’re also on Facebook @dailyexpresssport – offering your must-see news, features, videos and pictures throughout the day to like, comment and share from the Daily Express, Sunday Express and Express.co.uk.