Lionel Messi suffers World Cup injury scare as Argentina left sweating

Lionel Messi has sparked major fears over his World Cup fitness after limping off injured less than three weeks before the tournament begins.The Argentina captain suffered a worrying hamstring issue during Inter Miami's chaotic 6-4 victory over Philadelphia Union in Major League Soccer.Messi, 38, was seen clutching the back of his leg midway through the second half before signalling to the bench that he needed to be substituted.The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner immediately headed down the tunnel after being replaced by Mateo Silvetti as concerns quickly mounted over his condition. TRENDING Stories Videos Your Say Argentina are now facing an anxious wait to discover whether their talisman will be fit in time for the defence of their world title.Messi is expected to undergo further medical tests in the coming days to determine the severity of the injury.The Argentine icon appeared uncomfortable moments before coming off after slipping during the match and complaining of tightness in his hamstring.Inter Miami interim boss Guillermo Hoyos attempted to play down fears after the final whistle and suggested fatigue may have been the main issue.As far as I know, we don't have a report on that yet, but he really was fatigued, Hoyos said. It was fatigue. He was tired, the field was heavy, and rather than doubt, one always says not to take the risk.Nevertheless, the sight of Messi limping off has sent alarm bells ringing across Argentina ahead of the tournament.LATEST SPORTS NEWS:Sky Sports forced to apologise after Pep Guardiola comments in Man City farewell speechDeclan Rice left devastated during Arsenal Premier League title celebrationsEmma Raducanu makes emotional admission in press conference after teary French Open exitThe former Barcelona superstar is preparing for what would be his sixth World Cup appearance.Messi famously captained Argentina to glory in 2022's World Cup in Qatar and remains central to their hopes of retaining the trophy this summer.Argentina begin their campaign with a Group J clash against Algeria before facing Austria and Jordan.Messi heads into the competition in sensational form after registering 13 goals and seven assists in just 16 appearances this season.However, injury concerns have followed him throughout the campaign.The veteran forward was also sidelined earlier this year after suffering a muscle strain in the same hamstring area back in February.Inter Miami ultimately secured victory in an extraordinary MLS encounter thanks largely to Luis Suárez, who scored a hat-trick against Philadelphia.Milan Iloski also netted three times for the Union during one of the wildest matches of the MLS season. Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter