Gerardo Martino: 'Lionel Messi influenced Barcelona appointment'

New Barcelona coach Gerardo Martino believes that compatriot Lionel Messi had a say in his appointment at Camp Nou.

The 50-year-old was named as the successor to Tito Vilanova following his decision to step down from the post due to health reasons.

The Argentine, who agreed a two-year contract with the Spanish champions, feels that Messi was influential in the process of him being placed in charge.

"I don't know the details of the situation, [but] I have no doubts that Messi spoke with the club directors. I'm sure that Jorge (Messi's father) and Leo have had some weight in this decision," Martino said in a press conference.

"They've given their opinion and we've arrived at this end. How much weight their opinions held in the decision I don't know but I'm grateful."

Martino guided Newell's Old Boys to the Argentinian title last season.