Monday 6 June 2016 13:37, UK
Lionel Messi says he wants to end Argentina's 23-year wait for a major title by winning the Copa America and has reassured supporters about his injury.
After finishing runners-up at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil and at last year's Copa America in Chile, Argentina are favourites to lift the Copa America for the second time in their history and first since 1993.
"This Copa America is a very special tournament for me and more so after losing last year's final. That is why I want to win it for Argentina," Messi told El Mundo Deportivo.
Messi's 37 goals in 45 appearances were key to Barcelona's La Liga and Copa del Rey double winning campaign last season.
The Argentina captain hurt his back in an international friendly against Honduras on May 27 and is unlikely to start on Monday in his country's opener against Chile at the Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California.
He has reassured his fans, however, that the injury is not serious, adding: "I feel better."
Argentina will rely heavily on five-time World Player of the Year Messi, who has scored 50 goals in 107 appearances for his country and will play in his seventh major tournament with the national team.
