Lionel Messi back in training with Barcelona after Copa America ban and calf injury

Barcelona FC's training session on Wednesday saw the famous Argentine forward, Lionel Messi, back on the field after several weeks. Messi had sustained a calf injury during his Copa America appearance on behalf of his country. Barcelona FC tweeted images of Messi in practice, hinting that he may be joining the squad in their upcoming match against Real Betis.

Ever since Messi sustained his calf injury, he had been missing in action. Barcelona's pre-season programme and their first La Liga match went on in the superstar player's absence. That absence was surely felt when Barcelona were defeated in their opening league match. Without their star striker on the field, Barcelona lost 0-1 to Athletic Bilbao.

Messi was last seen in action during the Copa America third-place play-off. Argentina won the match against Chile to become second-runners up in the tournament. However, Messi was sent off during the match due to an altercation with Gary Medel. An enraged Messi ranted about South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) being corrupt and the tournament being rigged to ensure a victory for the host, Brazil. This rant landed Messi a one-match ban and a $1.5k (£1.2k, €1.3k) fine. Aside from the ban, Messi also sustained a calf injury.

On Wednesday, Messi sat out the first training session but joined the team during training later in the day. Since Copa America, Messi had reportedly been training alone to increase his fitness. Barcelona manager Ernesto Valverde will be glad to welcome Messi back in the team, with a couple of other players sitting out due to injury.

Ousmane Dembele will be missing matches for approximately five-weeks due to a hamstring injury. Luis Suarez is also recovering from a calf injury he sustained during the match against Athletic Bilbao. For how long Suarez will be missing in action is still unknown.

Goal confirmed with Barcelona representatives that Messi will be attending five training sessions ahead of the Sunday match. If Messi is deemed fit to play, he will be joining new signing Antoine Griezmann in the lead line for the first time.