Sir Bobby Charlton has claimed that Lionel Messi is the best player in the world and described the Argentine as "wonderful".

The former Manchester United captain admitted that Messi will probably never leave Barcelona but says that the the 24-year-old could play for anyone.

Charlton said: "Messi would be great for anybody... great playing for anyone. I doubt very much whether anybody will ever prise him away from Barcelona but, if they could, they are getting the best player in the world.

"It is there for all to see and he is just a wonderful, wonderful player."

Messi is the current holder of the FIFA world player of the year award.