Tata Martino has shared his thoughts on an Inter Miami player who could be set to replace Lionel Messi for the next few weeks in the starting XI.
The Argentine superstar missed his second Herons game this week with Messi expected to be out for quite some time, with the attacker twisting his ankle in the Copa America final, forcing the 37-year-old off with ligament damage.
Whilst the full extent of Messi’s injury and a timeframe is yet to be revealed, Inter Miami have gone about their business once again in a professional manner, with the Florida franchise claiming a 2-1 win last night against the Chicago Fire.
And Martino has given his verdict on one player’s performance who could be viewed as Messi’s replacement.
Martino impressed as Robert Taylor thrives vs Chicago Fire vs Inter Miami
Speaking to the press after last night’s win, Martino showered Robert Taylor with praise as the winger played a key role in Inter Miami’s victory against Chicago, with the Finnish international setting up Matias Rojas for the opening goal.
Having already been compared to MLS legend Ignacio Piatti this season, Taylor has shown this year why he is such an important player for Inter Miami, and Martino was full of praise for the attacker, who could ease the absence of Messi.
Martino said when asked about Taylor’s performances in recent weeks for Inter Miami: “In my opinion, Robert’s highs and lows have to do with his level of confidence, and also with things away from the field.
“He was hearing questions about whether he will be transferred, whether he would have to leave at the end of the year, but in recent days he was able to speak with us about his future, those conversations have been positive for him and he has that certainty, his head is in a good place knowing he is an important player for us and his performance reflected that.”
Taylor has what it takes to replace Messi for Inter Miami this summer
Taylor has often been viewed as one of the more underrated players in Inter Miami’s squad since Messi’s arrival last year, with the attacker taking his game to new heights and thriving as a result.
And with the Argentine set for an extended period of time out on the sideline, Taylor could have what it takes to replace Messi in the coming weeks, with the winger showing last night that he can be a force in MLS.
Indeed, Inter Miami are set for an interesting summer with Leagues Cup kicking off next week, and Taylor will want to prove he has what it takes to replace Messi in this Herons system.