‘Hard decisions’ – Gerardo Martino unsure if Lionel Messi is fit to return as Inter Miami prepare for busy fixture list

Messi was absent from the Miami squad for their last two MLS matches, while Alba missed their 5-2 defeat against Atlanta United at the weekend. Martino says the pair are fit enough to train on Tuesday, but it is not known if they will play in the midweek clash.

WHAT THEY SAID?

“Every player on our roster wants to play every match. That is the mentality of our group,” Martino said. “We have a lot of important matches in a short window of time, and one of my responsibilities as the coach is to care for my players and help them make the hard decisions that will give us the best chance of keeping everyone healthy during this busy run. Beginning on Wednesday, we have six matches in 18 days, which is one match every three days, including the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup final. Regarding Messi and Alba, both players will train in the full session today with the team and after that we’ll see if they’re available to play and to what extent.”