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Lionel Messi's father reveals anguish of Argentina star while struggling at Copa America
Jorge Messi hit back at journalists who criticised his son in the wake of Wednesday's tie against Colombia, while affirming that such treatment is getting to the striker
8 Jul 2011 23:12:00
By Daniel Edwards
Getty Images
Lionel Messi's father Jorge has revealed how much the Barcelona star's toils with the Argentina team have been affecting him, and defended his son against criticism from fans and the local press.
The 23-year-old was booed off the pitch on Wednesday evening along with the rest of the Argentina team, as they slumped to a 0-0 draw against Colombia which leaves them with just two points from their opening two Group A games.
Messi was far from his best in a physical game against defender Mario Yepes, and showed only glimpses of the talent which has earned him two consecutive Ballon d'Or awards.
Speaking on Friday in the aftermath of the game, Messi Sr. defended his son against criticism in his native country, and affirmed that such treatment was hurting the young star.
"Lionel is struggling with this situation. He can't understand where it has come from. But the people are free to opine what they wish," Jorge told Radio 10.
"What most irritates him though is the press, who create situations that nobody is expecting. They throw gasoline on the fire. The Argentine press can criticise, that is logical when Argentina play badly - but they should try and take better care of their team".
Continuing on the same theme, Messi claimed that many of the criticisms and barbs aimed at his son were founded in jealousy towards his success.
He added: "I don't understand the envy. Besides that, there are people who form opinions and speak about personal business. That hurts and annoys.
"There are people who criticise Lionel for not singing the national anthem to all four corners of the stadium. That is up to the individual, how can you criticise him for that?!"
Messi and Argentina complete their Group A with a clash against Costa Rica this Monday.
| Bet: | Returns: | Argentina £24.50 | Draw £32.50 | Brazil £26.00 |
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The 23-year-old was booed off the pitch on Wednesday evening along with the rest of the Argentina team, as they slumped to a 0-0 draw against Colombia which leaves them with just two points from their opening two Group A games.
Messi was far from his best in a physical game against defender Mario Yepes, and showed only glimpses of the talent which has earned him two consecutive Ballon d'Or awards.
Speaking on Friday in the aftermath of the game, Messi Sr. defended his son against criticism in his native country, and affirmed that such treatment was hurting the young star.
"Lionel is struggling with this situation. He can't understand where it has come from. But the people are free to opine what they wish," Jorge told Radio 10.
"What most irritates him though is the press, who create situations that nobody is expecting. They throw gasoline on the fire. The Argentine press can criticise, that is logical when Argentina play badly - but they should try and take better care of their team".
Continuing on the same theme, Messi claimed that many of the criticisms and barbs aimed at his son were founded in jealousy towards his success.
He added: "I don't understand the envy. Besides that, there are people who form opinions and speak about personal business. That hurts and annoys.
"There are people who criticise Lionel for not singing the national anthem to all four corners of the stadium. That is up to the individual, how can you criticise him for that?!"
Messi and Argentina complete their Group A with a clash against Costa Rica this Monday.
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