Federico Ricca: Uruguay have to get close to stop Lionel Messi

Federico Ricca: Uruguay have to get close to stop Lionel Messi

Malaga defender Federico Ricca has stated that Uruguay are aware of the threat that Argentina's Lionel Messi will pose against Uruguay on Thursday, but admits that other Albiceleste strikers can also cause problems.

The Albiceleste face the Charruas at the Estadio Malvinas Argentinas Mendoza as CONMEBOL qualifying continues for the 2018 World Cup.

Argentina are currently third in the table with 11 points while Uruguay lead the way in first with 13 points.

"We must be very close to stop Lionel Messi," the 21-year-old said. "If we give one meter to any of the Argentina strikers they can make the difference."

Ricca now shares the same dressing room as fellow Barcelona forward Luis Suarez after being called-up to the Uruguay squad for the first time - something he has wanted to achieve for as long as he can remember.

"Being with the Uruguay team is a dream I have had since childhood," he concluded. "Sharing a dressing room with Luis Suarez is very, very good.

"He's a star and one of the best footballers in the world and to have him as a team-mate is something special. I try to enjoy this moment and learn a lot from this squad of players."