Argentina captain Lionel Messi playing in a free role means he can influence games as much as possible, according to his international teammate, Sergio Aguero
Fitness issues have so far limited Messi to substitute appearances at this year's Copa America Centenario -- but the Barcelona star has been particularly influential in a deep, roving role when he has made it off the bench, such as during Argentina's 5-0 win over Panama in which he scored a hat trick.
Speaking from the Albiceleste camp in the build-up to the quarterfinal against Venezuela on Saturday in Foxborough, Massachusetts, the Manchester City attacker told Sport that the more often Messi could get on the ball, the better for his side.
"On the pitch Messi is free, he can move around everywhere as for us it is good for him not to be fixed in one position," Aguero said.
"The more contact he has with the ball, the better as Leo can decide a game in any moment."
The tournament has also seen a continuation of the debate over quietly-spoken Messi's personality, with former Argentina national captain and coach Diego Maradona saying the four-time Ballon d'Or winner was a great player but lacked the personality of past leaders of the national team.
Ex-Argentina midfielder Juan Sebastian Veron told Fox Sports Messi had matured since he played under Maradona at the 2010 World Cup and could now lead the team without having to shout at his teammates.
"Leo today is a kid who is not such a kid anymore," Veron said. "So his personality is not as easily dominated as it was, with Maradona in his time, for example.
"In this aspect he is very relaxed. But he has a lot of respect from the squad. Messi has his own way of leading. He is a leader without raising his voice."