Inter Miami coach Martino confirms Messi's return is approaching

Inter Miami coach 'Tata' Martino said on Wednesday that Messi, who has had a right ankle injury since the Copa America final on July 14, is progressing as expected.

"Leo is doing well, improving every day. He's still in the gym, but he's looking better and better. He's within the timeframe we've been thinking about," he told a news conference ahead of the clash against Toronto.

Messi will not play against the Canadians, but Uruguay's Luis Suarez, who has been struggling with a knee problem, will be available. "Luis trained very well. He's been with the group all week, so he's available," he said.

Inter Miami are the reigning Leagues Cup champions and will face a Toronto side led by Lorenzo Insigne and Federico Bernardeschi at their home stadium on Thursday and, according to Martino, are a side that will make things difficult for them.

"They are a very intense team, who also play well. For my taste, they are in a place in the (MLS) table well below what they have been playing lately. They have important players. It's going to be a really tough game," he said.