“I don´t understand the criticism of Messi”

Spain full-back Jordi Alba insisted he could not understand the criticism of Argentina star and Barcelona team-mate Lionel Messi at the World Cup.

Messi has come under fire in Russia, where Argentina are in danger of making a group-stage exit after drawing with Iceland and losing 3-0 to Croatia.

The superstar forward is yet to provide a goal or an assist at the showpiece event, and Jorge Sampaoli’s men need a win over Nigeria Tuesday to have any chance of reaching the last 16.

But Alba defended Messi, who is still searching for his first senior trophy with Argentina.

“I can’t imagine it. He is being criticised and I don’t understand it at all,” he told Marca.

“Argentina is immensely better with him than without him. They should be proud to have Messi in their national team.

“He is a unique player, who unfortunately hasn’t won the three finals he has played with Argentina and that isn’t easy.

“You have to admire what he has done for his national team.”

Argentina are bottom of Group D on one point, but have hope of going past Nigeria (three) and Iceland (one)