Messi pays tribute to Sabella

Lionel Messi has paid tribute to Alejandro Sabella, crediting the former Argentina coach with inspiring some of his best football in the build-up to and during the 2014 World Cup finals.

Sabella, 66, passed away in hospital on Tuesday after almost two weeks battling the effects of an acute heart condition, which was aggravated by infection during his stay at the facility.

Aside from his spell in England at the two Yorkshire clubs in the late 1970s and early 1980s, Sabella was best known outside his home country for taking Messi and the Albiceleste agonisingly close to their third World Cup title in Brazil six years ago.

The ex-Estudiantes boss made Leo captain in 2011 and his faith was rewarded with some of his finest performances in international colours, culminating in his star turn as Argentina battled to the final against Germany.

Messi, who had been gearing up for Barcelona's Champions League meeting with Juventus when the news broke, offered a heartfelt homage to another of his national team coaches. 

"It was a pleasure to share so much with you," the star said on Instagram.

"Alejandro was a great person, aside from being a model professional who shaped my career and helped me learn much from him.

"We enjoyed together some of my favourite footballing memories during qualification for the World Cup and in the World Cup itself. My condolences to all his family and friends."