Messi Backs In Training With Inter Miami

World Cup champion Lionel Messi returned to Inter Miami practice Wednesday for the first time since injuring his ankle during the Copa America final last month.

The 37-year-old star completed individual drills before joining his Miami teammates on the field for his first public practice since he sustained a right ankle ligament injury during the July 14 showdown that Argentina won against Colombia.

While Messi had already resumed individual work last week, Wednesday marked his first appearance practicing with his teammates, a significant step in his recovery process.

Messi has missed the last seven of Miami’s games due to the injury, but has not played with his MLS side since June 1 because of his international duty with Argentina. Despite the absence of its star player, Inter Miami has had a stellar season.

The team currently leads the MLS Eastern Conference, six points ahead of second-place Cincinnati, and has already clinched a playoff spot after defeating Cincinnati 2-0 Saturday..