WATCH: Lionel Messi returns to training for Inter Miami after two-match absence, coach Javier Mascherano 'optimistic' he can play Sunday

Inter Miami's Lionel Messi returned to the club's training sessions Saturday, a potentially positive sign for the team ahead of its clash against Charlotte FC Sunday.

The Herons manager Javier Mascherano is hopeful of a return of his star player but insisted he will be cautious in determining if the 37-year-old can play.

"Leo is much better. We are optimistic that if everything goes well, there is a chance that he will be on the roster. We will see, but we still need to train. Obviously, I never guarantee anything when there is still training to be done," Mascherano told reporters.

Miami has generally not missed a beat in Messi's absence, dominating Houston and edging Cavalier FC. Charlotte FC offers a more difficult test, though, especially with Wilfried Zaha now in the mix and impressive in his debut.

All eyes will be on whether or not the Argentine will make his return Sunday. This Week 3 clash can already been seen as an early projection of two Eastern Conference contenders.