Javier Mascherano backs Lionel Messi to deliver at World Cup

Javier Mascherano has insisted that he there is no doubt that Lionel Messi can produce his best form for Argentina at the World Cup.

Argentina are expected to go far in the tournament this summer, and Mascherano has dismissed suggestions that his Barcelona teammate will not be able to handle the pressure of leading the team to glory.

"If you're the best in the world and you don't depend on him then who will you depend on?" the 29-year-old is quoted as saying by SPORT.

"It sounds ridiculous to me to doubt [Messi]. If you have the best then you will try to squeeze the maximum. Messi has to feel that we play for him to show his virtues."

Argentina take on Bosnia and Herzegovina, Iran and Nigeria in Group F.