Lionel Messi stated that the Argentina captaincy'still belongs to him' despite his injuries.

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[{"selector":"#anim-729735af-bb6c-4004-830c-b5d3d46626f6 [data-leaf-element=\"true\"]","keyframes":{"transform":["translate(0%, 0%) scale(1)","translate(0%, 0%) scale(1)"]},"delay":0,"duration":2000,"easing":"cubic-bezier(.3,0,.55,1)","fill":"forwards"}] Lionel Messi has been assured that his position as Argentina captain is secure, as Rodrigo De Paul fills in for the injured Inter Miami star.

Messi was ruled out of Argentina's World Cup qualification matches against Chile and Colombia during the next week due to an injury

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The 37-year-old has captained the Albiceleste since 2011 and remains an important member of Lionel Scaloni's squad. In Messi's absence

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Angel Di Maria was normally expected to carry the captain's armband.

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However, the former Real Madrid and Manchester United attacker resigned from international football this summer

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Whenever Di Maria has had to leave the field as captain, he has handed the armband to Atletico Madrid midfielder De Paul

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"I always say that I play the role that they give me," De Paul said when asked about taking on Messi's responsibilities.

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Picture Puzzle IQ Test: Locate the word "friends" in the birthday party scenario in 5 seconds!

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