Diego Maradona backs Lionel Messi to have World Cup "revenge"

Argentina legend Diego Maradona believes that Lionel Messi can have his "revenge" at next summer's World Cup.

La Albiceleste were eliminated by Germany in the second round of the 2010 tournament in South Africa, and Maradona, who coached the team during the competition, has backed the Barcelona star to fire his national side to glory this time round.

"I [was] not disappointed by Messi in 2010," he told reporters.

"If he had of scored the chances he missed we would be world champions. He was unlucky. But I hope that he can take his revenge in Brazil."

"The reason I am no longer Argentina coach is because I stuck to my principles."

The draw for the World Cup will made on December 6.