Messi positive on chances

Messi: Has optimism

Argentina star Lionel Messi is optimistic about his country's chances in this summer's World Cup.

The Barcelona forward will have the hopes of Argentina on his shoulders in South Africa, as they look to secure their first World Cup since 1986.

Diego Maradona's men are not favourites to secure the title, but Messi believes they have the strength to go all the way.

"I must admit that I'm looking forward to the tournament and want to show that the time might come for Argentina to be world champions," he told deniksport.cz.

"It will need a big effort but our national team consists of top players in top shape and that is important.

"We are not annoyed at all not to be considered favourites. It could be a positive for us.

"On the other hand, we are not worried about what people think. We want to do our job and that is to pick up good results and score goals which could lead us to World Cup glory.

"The qualification is behind us and now we feel a lot more relaxed. We will see if that brings a change in our playing style.

"I think that as soon as the action begins, everyone will see a striking change."

Maradona factor

Maradona has received criticism in some quarters for his erratic management style since taking the national reins, but Messi says he is doing a great job.

"Maradona is a great football personality and a true legend for all Argentinians. Everyone in the national team has faith in him," he added.

"Players and coaches stick together and we are all united. We will be fighting together to go as far as possible.

"In my opinion he is a coach who is close to his players. He is not as absent as some coaches can be. He is simply one of us and the fact alone that he is with us gives us all plenty of confidence."