Inter Miami’s assistant coach Javier Morales has provided an update on the planned date for Lionel Messi’s return to action from injury.
WHAT HAPPENED?
Messi has been out with a minor hamstring strain for over two weeks after being forced off against Nashville in a CONCACAF Champions Cup clash. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner missed the Herons’ game against D.C. United and the international break as a precaution, but is doing light training in a race to be back for Wednesday’s game against Monterrey.
WHAT MORALES SAID
Morales explained: “Leo is working with the physios. He is ruled out for tomorrow [against NYCFC], he will not be available because we will be trying to do our best so that he can play at home next Wednesday against Monterrey.”
DID YOU KNOW?
Since making his debut for the Herons, Messi has played in 19 games and the side has won 15 of them. However, without the footballing genius, Inter Miami have struggled to pick up results – epitomised by last weekend’s thumping by New York Red Bulls.
WHAT NEXT FOR MESSI AND INTER MIAMI?
Messi will have to watch on from the sidelines as Miami take on NYCFC but will be satisfied should he recover to play in the Champions Cup quarter-final. Inter Miami and Columbus Crew are the only remaining MLS representation left in the tournament.
