Lionel Messi's recovery from a thigh injury is progressing so well he is ready to return to Barcelona, according to Argentina's team doctor.The 20-year-old has not played since the beginning of March when he suffered a thigh muscle tear in his left leg during a Champions League game against Celtic.

For the past two weeks he has been doing light training under the watchful eyes of Argentinian Football Association kinesiologist Luis Garcia and physio Marcelo D'Andrea.

National team doctor Raul Madero told Mundo Deportivo newspaper: "Leo's condition is excellent.

"The recovery is heading in a good direction. When he gets to Barcelona, the club doctors will evaluate him.

"I respect my colleagues, so I would prefer it if they decide when he should play again."

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