Fort Lauderdale, Florida, August 16 (HS): Inter Miami’s star forward Lionel Messi is poised to make his comeback in Saturday’s showdown against LA Galaxy after recovering from a right leg injury. The team’s head coach Javier Mascherano confirmed Messi’s return on Friday.

The 38-year-old had missed the last two matches due to the injury sustained during the first half of the Leagues Cup clash against Necaxa on August 2. However, Messi resumed training with the squad earlier this week.

“Lionel is fully fit now. He has been training with the team since Wednesday. Barring any unforeseen circumstances, we expect him to feature in the match,” Mascherano stated.

Currently tied with Nashville’s Sam Surridge at 18 goals, Messi is a strong contender for the MLS Golden Boot this season. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner from Argentina has also provided 10 assists in 17 MLS appearances this campaign.

Inter Miami (12-5-6, 42 points) sits sixth in the Eastern Conference standings, holding a comfortable six-point cushion above the playoff cutoff. The team has also advanced to the quarterfinals of the Leagues Cup, setting up a promising phase ahead.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar