Argentina coach speaks on Messi injury

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni said there are still doubts over captain Lionel Messi's participation in Friday's Copa America quarter-final against Ecuador at the NRG Stadium in Houston.

Messi, who suffered a hamstring injury against Chile, did not play in the final group game against Peru, which Scaloni also missed after the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) suspended him for one match.

"We will wait a few hours and make a decision. Another day is always better. We will decide based on the response we get today," Scaloni told a news conference after Messi trained with the team.

"We will try to play him, and if not, we will try to find the best thing for the team. I will talk to him and I think it is fair that he takes his time and trains as much as he can."

Defending champions Argentina are bidding to win a record 16th Copa America title.

They will face a strong Ecuador side who secured their place in the last eight by finishing second in Group B after a goalless draw with Mexico.

"Ecuador are a good team with good players and a good coach. They are one of the best teams in the Copa America. They have a real chance to compete for the title," Scaloni said.

The Argentine coach added that the continental tournament has proven to be of a high standard and that there are no favourites to win the title.

"Any team can easily reach the final and compete with the best in the world. The Colombia-Brazil match was of a very high standard. Uruguay are also playing very well, which is no surprise," he said.