'Messi is the best in the world' - Lamela

14 Feb 2013 8:28:00 PM

The young forward believes that his compatriot is the best player in the world, and hopes to join him in the Argentina side in the near future after some fine form with Roma

EXCLUSIVE
By Alex Labidou

Roma striker Eric Lamela has heaped praise on his Argentina team-mate Lionel Messi, claiming that he deserves the recognition and praise he receives as he is the best player in the world.

Lamela is one of the latest talented young Argentines to be making an impact in Europe and revealed an admiration for the Barcelona star.

“Messi is obviously a player I like,” Lamela told Goal.com. "Messi deserves the Ballon d’Or because he’s the best player in the world. As a person he’s very modest both on the field and off it.”

Lamela also spoke of his desire to join Messi in the Argentina national team set-up.

The 20-year-old has one cap for his country and that came back in 2011.

However, the forward has been in fine form for a disappointing Roma side, scoring 11 goals in 19 appearances this league season, and he hopes this will catch the eye of Argentina boss Alejandro Sabella.

He added: “Hopefully I’ll get another call-up. That’s my dream but I just have to keep playing well and … wait for the call to come.”