VIDEO: ‘Lionel Messi was afraid!’ - Monterrey fans direct savage chant towards Inter Miami superstar after his absence in CONCACAF Champions Cup quarter-final loss

The Herons have it all to do in order to keep themselves in contention for major silverware in that competition. They did take the lead in the first leg of a heavyweight quarter-final encounter as Tomas Aviles found the target, but conceded twice in the second half after seeing David Ruiz sent off.

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Argentine superstar Messi played no part in that contest as he works his way back from injury, but he was still singled out by visiting fans to Florida. Monterrey followers took to singing “Messi was afraid” as the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner remained rooted to a seat in the stands.

Inter Miami will be hoping to have their talismanic No.10 back for a return date with Monterrey. They are due in Mexico on April 10, with at least two goals required in order to progress through an event that still boasts an away goals rule.

Tata Martino's side will be in MLS action prior to that against Colorado on Saturday, with it possible that Messi – who has returned to training – will be involved in that fixture as he works his way back towards full match sharpness.