Argentina to deploy Messi

The striker was then handed a three-month suspension for comments he made after the game.

LIONEL Messi is back in action for Argentina. AFP

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina (AFP) — Argentina called up Lionel Messi for friendly games against Brazil and Uruguay next month, the country’s football association announced on Twitter.

Messi has not played for Argentina since he was sent off against Chile in their victorious third-place playoff match in the Copa America on 7 July.

The striker was then handed a three-month suspension for comments he made after the game in which he accused the governing body of South American football of corruption.

In-form Manchester City forward Sergio Aguero has been recalled after missing out on the last four friendlies while Manchester United defender Marcos Rojo remains in the squad following his surprise recall after the Copa America.

In Messi’s absence, Argentina has played four friendlies, drawing against Chile (0-0) and Germany (2-2) while thrashing Mexico 4-0 and Ecuador 6-1.

They face Brazil in Saudi Arabia on 15 November and then Uruguay in Israel on 18 November.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner has endured an injury-hit start to the season after hurting his foot in August and then his thigh in September.

But his recovery has coincided with a return to form for Barcelona, who has won their last seven consecutive games in all competitions.