Lionel Messi could return to action when Inter Miami take on the Columbus Crew on Sunday.
Messi returned to training on Friday after his break following the World Cup. Argentina teammate Rodrigo De Paul also trained with the squad for the first time since Major League Soccer resumed. Both players are available for selection.
“Messi got here a little bit ago so we haven’t had a chance yet to properly talk about it,” Inter Miami coach Guillermo Hoyos said.
“But we’re happy he and De Paul are back.”
Inter Miami have continued their strong form even without Messi. The team has won six straight league matches since May 9. They now sit on 37 points from 17 matches with 11 wins, two losses and four draws.
The club is only two points behind Nashville SC in the race for the Supporters’ Shield.
Brazilian midfielder Casemiro is also set to play his first home match for Miami. He made his debut in last week’s 1 nil win over CF Montreal.
Luis Suarez scored the winning goal in that match. The Uruguayan striker has scored three goals in his last two matches and six in his last three games for Miami.
Columbus Crew come into the match after a 2 1 win over FC Cincinnati in the Hell is Real derby.
The club is expected to lose winger Max Arfsten, who is close to joining English club Middlesbrough.
Midfielder Taha Habroune is also racing to recover from an injury he suffered against Cincinnati. He trained before the match and could be available.
“Limping a little bit,” interim coach Laurent Courtois said.
“It’s painful when he tries to change direction, but he was able to train. We tried to modify him a little bit, but he was able to train.”
Diego Rossi is Columbus’ top scorer this season with six goals.
