Argentina fitness update as Lionel Messi skips training ahead of England clash

Argentina received a fitness boost ahead of their World Cup semi-final clash with England after Lionel Messi, Cristian Romero and Leandro Paredes were passed fit to play. The statement came as Argentina prepared for Wednesday’s match at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium, following a narrow quarter-final escape versus Switzerland where Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez scored in extra time after Alexis Mac Allister put Argentina ahead in the 10th minute. Dan Ndoye’s equaliser in the second half forced the game to go the distance, and the report said extra-time periods, heat, travel and overall season wear are “taking their toll” on coach Lionel Scaloni’s squad. Cristian Romero and Paredes were replaced during extra time, and Messi received a blow to his right eye but was treated and later reported to be improving. According to TyC Sports, no one finished the Switzerland match injured. Argentina will recover in Kansas City before training in Atlanta on Tuesday.