The forward admits he is desperate to replicate his achievements at club level on the international stage, as he prepares to lead out the Albiceleste in the coming days.

Messi

Lionel Messi has revealed that it is his dream to become successful with Argentina, ahead of his side’s 2014 World Cup qualifiers against Paraguay and Peru.

The diminutive forward is regarded as arguably the best player of his generation, having enjoyed enormous acclaim at club level with Barcelona since his debut in 2004.

However, he has come in for criticism following his failure thus far to inspire Argentina to a major trophy – something the superstar is desperate to put right.

“I have had the good fortune to win trophies with my team and on a personal level,” he told reporters.

“I am missing one with the senior team. That is my dream. It is a difficult road to the World Cup.”

The Albiceleste currently sit third of nine teams in the South American zone after three wins, one draw and a defeat in their first five games, and Messi insists his country must approach their next two matches with a positive mindset.

“Paraguay and Peru will be two difficult opponents, all the games in qualifying are difficult,” he added.

“The qualifiers are very tough and we must keep growing as a team. Against Paraguay we must have the ball and attack because we know they are a hard team.

“We are getting results and we can work calmly. We hope to continue like this in our next two games.

“You cannot drop points at home, and we want to play well, but the most important thing is to win. We will try and play well and excite the fans.”

Nonetheless, Argentina seem to have turned the corner under new boss Alejandro Sabella, with five straight wins to their name, including emphatic friendly victories over Brazil and Germany.

Messi has played a key role in their recent run, recording hat-tricks against the Selecao and Switzerland, and he attributes his improved form to the country’s passionate support.

“I do not know if this is my best year with the national team,” he remarked.

“We have won a few games in a row and it is a while since we managed that. I played well at the Copa America, then there were some ups and downs, now I am enjoying how it is going.

“I appreciate the support of all Argentines. With our results they are getting behind the national team more.

“We are happy that they are with us in every game.”

Argentina host Paraguay in Cordoba on Friday, before travelling to Peru on Tuesday.

source