Lionel Messi sends touching message to Inter Miami after David Beckham's club celebrate Argentine's incredible 45 titles with epic tribute

Inter Miami were back in action on Saturday as they faced Chicago Fire in a Major League Soccer clash. While Messi did not feature in the game due to an ankle injury, he was in attendance at Chase Stadium. Right before kick-off, the Herons organised an elaborate show to salute their skipper. The event highlighted some of the star's most memorable triumphs, along with fireworks and the presentation of a special picture in which his trophy wins were worked into a ‘45’ montage.

After receiving the heartwarming honour from his club, Messi took to social media to thank the team for their tribute. Despite the 37-year-old missing from the clash, the David Beckham-owned side managed to pick up a narrow 2-1 win courtesy of goals from Matias Rojas and Jordi Alba.

On Instagram, the 37-year-old shared a series of photographs from the show as he wrote in the caption, "Thank you so much for the recognition, @intermiamicf! It was a pleasure to share this moment with our people on the pitch."

The former Barcelona player is currently sidelined with an ankle injury that he suffered during the Copa America final and is all set to miss the upcoming MLS all-star match followed by their opening game in the Leagues Cup.