Tim Vickery says Lionel Messi had a big says in Sergio Aguero's selection for the Argentine Copa America Squad.
The 14 time Copa America champions kick-off their 2019 campaign against Colombia later tonight Itaipava Fonte Nova Arena, Brazil.
Vickery believes the Argentine legend had a major say in the selection of the Manchester City hitman ahead of Inter's Mauro Icardi.
"He put his sold mate Aguero in the list. And the message hat Messi was sending was, 'If you want me in this Copa America; I want Aguero - I don't want Icardi,' Vickery told Saturday's OTB.
He beleives the Argentine side lack real World class quality in certain areas that may cost them tonight against a strong Colombian side headed by former Manchester United assistant manager Charles Queiroz.
Many have critiqued Messi international form and Vickery says the fact he made himself available for selection backs up his desire to win international honours.
"The fact that he's here makes it very, very serious to him. I wondered a coupe of months ago if he'd bother with this one. First because Argentina have a caretaker coach, and secondly there's another Copa America in 12 month's time.
Messi has achieved silverware at underage level for Argentina but has never at senior international level, and his chances of achieving that a running out at the age of 31.
"The fact he is here really shows how serious he is about winning some senior international. He's won the World U-20 Cup; he's won the olympic title but at senior-level he hasn't.
Barcelona's Messi may only have until the 2022 World Cup believe's Vickery.
"He's got this year; he's got next year, and he's probably got the next World Cup"
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