Tata Martino has now given his verdict on Lionel Messi’s comeback performance for Inter Miami after last night’s draw against the Colorado Rapids.
The Herons captain finally returned to action after nearly a month out on the sideline through injury, with Messi coming on in the second half and making an immediate impact.
Messi tied the game up just before the hour mark, yet it wasn’t enough for Inter Miami as the Florida franchise conceded a late goal to draw the game 2-2, dropping two vital points.
Lionel Messi praised after Inter Miami draw vs Colorado Rapids
Yet speaking to the Miami Herald after the match, Inter Miami manager Martino was full of praise for Messi and how his performance influenced the game on Saturday.
The Argentine international gives Inter Miami a noticeable boost whenever on the pitch, and last against the Colorado Rapids despite not playing for a month was now exception.
Indeed, Messi’s influence is arguably the biggest out of any player for a single MLS side, and Inter Miami will hope the forward can remain fit for the next few games.
Martino said: “What Leo did is what he always does, how he affects our team, all his teammates, the fans, and the most important thing is he felt comfortable, he felt good, he felt loose, and that’s why it’s a shame to have to give up two points.”
Lionel Messi showed he can dictate MLS playoff picture
Messi continues to prove doubters wrong despite his incredible resume and the performances the Argentine has already put on for Inter Miami in recent months.
And last night again proved that the 36-year-old forward could be a influential figure in the MLS playoff race, with Inter Miami already looking like a sure-bet to make the post-season.
Yet for other clubs, Messi’s quality and presence in games could be the difference between a franchise secured a playoff spot or missing out, such is the Inter Miami star’s incredible quality.