Messi's availability vs. Chile a 'last moment' decision

Lionel Messi linked up with Argentina's national team ahead of its first Copa America Centenario match against Chile, but the Barcelona star still isn't guaranteed to play, according to manager Gerardo Martino.

Fresh off the plane after facing trial on charges of tax fraud, the diminutive Argentine remains questionable as he deals with a back injury, one that makes him a game-day decision for Martino's side.

"We have hope that he'll be available, because there wasn't an injury to the bone, but it will be a day-to-day thing," Martino said, as translated by theScore. "I suppose that will be decided at the last moment, because the lumbar region is very delicate."

Related: Messi was in 'intense pain' after back injury, team doctor says

Messi picked up a lower-back injury during a pre-tournament friendly against Honduras last week, and while his absence would be felt against a tough Chilean side, Martino can rest knowing Messi's role up top can be filled with Serie A leading scoring Gonzalo Higuain.