Hamstring scare sidelines Messi

Inter Miami’s Lionel Messi did not participate in training on Thursday due to a muscle strain in his left hamstring, with his injury leading to the postponement of what was supposed to be the reigning MLS Cup champion's preseason finale.

Inter Miami, scheduled to open its MLS campaign on 21 February, said the two-time reigning league MVP sustained the injury during a preseason game last weekend against Barcelona Sporting Club in Ecuador, where he scored but was substituted in the second half.

Messi underwent additional medical tests that confirmed the diagnosis.

"His gradual return to training will depend on his clinical and functional progress in the coming days," Inter Miami said.

As a result of the injury, the friendly between Inter Miami and Ecuadorian club Independiente del Valle, scheduled to be played on Friday at Juan Ramon Loubriel Stadium in Puerto Rico, has been postponed to 26 February.