'Messi trained normally, he's fine to play'

Sampaoli started by discussing the fitness of his star man, confirming that Messi would be available for the game. "Messi trained normally, he's fine to play," Sampaoli explained.

"Leo played well, shy of a last-minute problem I don't think there'll be any issue with him playing against Spain tomorrow. When I get back I'll see how he is but when I came here he was fine to play," he added.

Learn from Spain

Sampaoli also had some words for Spain, calling them a fine example. "Spain are among the best teams in the world if we look at how they work as a national team. Spain have a lot of things that we want to have," he explained.

"Andres Iniesta can be like Messi in the way that he delivers a killer pass. Isco and Asensio are also two players who understand Messi's role well.

"We don't have to copy Spain's model but I emphasise that they have uncovered quality players with an undeniable style of football. There is a good culture in the squad of passing football," Sampaoli concluded.

Growth of the 'Albiceleste'

With regard to the new additions to the Argentina squad Sampaoli said: "Today we trained with two groups, which allowed us to see players more up close. Maxi is here and he has the same chance as anyone else, just like Lautaro Martinez. they're very young players that are enjoying a great spell in Argentinian football. They have to compare themselves to the quality of the rest of the squad."

Sampaoli is clear what Argentina have to do to defeat Spain: "What we have to do against Spain is defend with the ball, without the ball it is impossible to compete."

"When Spain have the ball they have a lot of quality, we're going to need courage and precision for that. We're eager to put in a good performance after a good week of training."

Finally, Sampaoli ended by commenting on the absence of Juventus star Paulo Dybala from the squad, saying: "Dybala isn't in this squad because we wanted to give other players a chance, but he's very much in my thoughts. Both him and other players who didn't receive a call-up have plenty of chance of going to the World Cup in Russia."