Lionel Messi has revealed that "the idea is to play against Spain" after being forced to miss Argentina's friendly with Italy due to a minor injury problem.

The 30-year-old watched on from the stands at the Etihad Stadium as his side battled to a 2-0 victory over the Azzurri on Friday night - Ever Banega and Manuel Lanzini netting the goals.

Messi hopes to make a swift return to action when Argentina lock horns with Spain in Madrid on Tuesday, however, providing a major boost to his national team and also club side Barcelona.

"I was excited to be able to take part in the game against Italy, but I'm happy with the group's meet-up, I have good feelings," he told Fox Sports. "In principle, the idea is to play against Spain. I'm going to see how I am."

Messi has netted in each of his last six matches, scoring eight goals in total.