No Lionel Messi for up to five games as Inter Miami's plan to 'survive' Copa America without their talismanic captain is explained by Tata Martino

The Herons knew heading into the current MLS campaign that there was going to be a period this summer in which their talismanic captain would be unavailable. That is because Messi is due to head off with Argentina in a bid to defend their prestigious Copa America crown.

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The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has been starring for Inter Miami when fit this season, with the history books being rewritten while plundering 12 goals through as many appearances in all competitions. There is already talk of Messi walking away with the MLS MVP award.

He will, however, sit out five matches – against the Philadelphia Union, Columbus Crew, Nashville SC, Charlotte FC and FC Cincinnati – if Argentina are able to push themselves into contention for Copa America honours on U.S. soil.

Inter Miami have shown that they can cope without Messi, and win when he posts no goal contributions, and Martino considers that to be a positive sign. He said when asked about the impending absence of a mercurial figure: "If these players find themselves in form, with confidence, secure, and understand the challenges of the five games after St. Louis, it's clear that we'll be able to survive Copa America."

The Herons saw off D.C. United last time out without the need for Messi to make a match-altering contribution, and they remain top of the MLS Eastern Conference. The South American superstar has three more games to take in – against the Vancouver Whitecaps, Atlanta United and St Louis City SC – before heading off on international duty.