Inter Miami head coach Gerardo Martino is to wait until the day of the US Open Cup final against Houston Dynamo before deciding on Lionel Messi’s fitness.
Diego GorostietaDiegsGorostietaWilliam AllenWAS_AllenUpdate: Sep 26th, 2023 13:16 EDT
CHANDAN KHANNAAFP
Inter Miami head coach Gerardo Martino says he’ll make an 11th-hour call on Lionel Messi’s fitness for Wednesday’s US Open Cup final.
Messi in fitness race for final against Dynamo
Messi, who has scored 11 goals in 12 games since joining Miami, is struggling with a scar tissue problem that forced him to miss Sunday’s 1-1 MLS draw with Orlando City.
Along with Jordi Alba, who is suffering from muscle fatigue, Messi was initially absent from training on Tuesday – although Martino later insisted that the pair did finally join in the session.
Messi and Alba touch and go
Speaking to reporters on the eve of the final, Martino remained unsure whether either will be able to face Houston Dynamo at DRV PNK Stadium, albeit he appeared more optimistic over Messi’s chances.
“[Messi and Alba] came out to train when you [the media] left, so that’s why you didn’t see them,” the 60-year-old said. “We’re going to wait until tomorrow. It’s looking difficult for Jordi, but as for Leo, we’re going to hold off until tomorrow.
“It’ll be a tough decision, but we’re going to wait until the last moment.”
Open Cup Final Press Conference with Head Coach Tata Martino and Sergio Busquets https://t.co/keptsReviP
— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) September 26, 2023
