Lionel Messi set to return to boost flying Herons

Inter Miami may not be missing Lionel Messi but their MLS play-off chances are about to be boosted by the Argentina superstar’s return.

Messi was again absent from last night’s 4-1 win at the Chicago Fire after injuring his ankle in Argentina’s Copa América final win over Colombia on July 14.

But coach Tara Martino revealed afterwards the 37-year-old is set to return for the Herons’ next game, against the Philadelphia Union on September 14.

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Martino said: “Leo [is] doing well and spent time training with the group. 

“We felt that for the time he could give us in this match, it might be better to consider the next 15 days. Ultimately, we discussed it and concluded that this second option was better. So, we’re aiming to have him available for the match against Philadelphia.”

Miami did not miss their talisman against Chicago as Luis Suarez took centre stage with a second-half double to keep the Eastern Conference leaders eight points clear of the chasing pack.

Former Liverpool and Barcelona star Suarez has scored six goals in seven appearances following the Copa.

Gol de la leyenda, gol del mejor 9️⃣ del siglo, gol de @LuisSuarez9 pic.twitter.com/noz2cKcnW4

— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) September 1, 2024

An own goal from Chicago’s Tobias Salquist and a late Robert Taylor strike completed an emphatic evening for Martino’s men.

“After the goal, we were in control until there were about 10 or 12 minutes left in the match,” said Martino. 

“After that we retreated a bit, but the guys that subbed on did well, and from there we could seal the match with Robert [Taylor’s] goal. Luis [Suárez] was the best player on the pitch.”