Spain's David de Gea keen to take on Lionel Messi in friendly against Argentina

Spain goalkeeper David de Gea has claimed that he wants to take on Lionel Messi in Tuesday's international friendly against Argentina.

The five-time Ballon d'Or winner was absent from his nation's 2-0 triumph over Italy last Friday due to a minor adductor muscle injury.

However, the Barcelona star is expected to play against Spain tomorrow evening.

In a pre-match press conference, De Gea told reporters: "We want to face the best players and Messi is one of them. As a goalkeeper it's a challenge to face Messi.

"We are going through a good spell. We have to maintain this line and hope to arrive in the best form possible at the World Cup. We have a wonderful group, we get on well together and that is also transmitted on the pitch. We have ambition, enthusiasm and a great group."

Spain recorded a 1-1 draw with Germany last week.