Lionel Messi injury latest as Inter Miami coach casts doubts about Argentine's availability ahead of MLS Rivalry Week clash with Orlando City

In their 3-2 victory over CF MTL on Saturday, Messi came away with "a little knock" on his knee, per assistant coach Javier Morales. Now, the Argentine legend, along with Sergio Busquets and Luis Suarez, will be assessed ahead of Wednesday evening's clash with Orlando City.

“We are going to check Messi today, see how he feels today during the training session and then make a decision,” Morales said via ESPN. “Yesterday, he did the bike and jogged a little bit and felt his knee a little bit but we’ll see how he is today.

“He suffered a hit to the knee on Saturday vs. Montréal, he continued playing through the end of the game and then iced it when finished. He trained with the players yesterday who did regenerative work, with the bicycle and a bit of jogging on the field.

“Now, like the rest of the players, we will evaluate them to see how they feel and who is ready.”

Messi has been crucial to Inter Miami's success this season, registering 10 goals and nine assists in nine MLS matches. He's on pace to shatter nearly every single-season attacking record in the league's history. If he's unavailable on Wednesday evening, his side will need to find a way to win without their star man.

Messi set an MLS record against the New York Red Bulls two matchdays ago, becoming the first-ever player to notch five assists in a regular season game. In the same match, he recorded six-total goal contributions, becoming the maiden MLS player to do so.

Miami take on Orlando City Wednesday evening in a midweek slate of MLS action. As a part of Rivalry Week, the Herons will look to secure an early-season double over their bitter foes.