Lionel Messi has conceded that Argentina cannot be considered among the World Cup favourites, but has predicted that this summer's tournament will be a very even competition.

The 30-year-old is the undoubted star player in La Albiceleste's 23-man squad for Russia 2018, as they look to go one better than four years ago when losing in the final.

Argentina also have the likes of Sergio Aguero, Paulo Dybala and Gonzalo Higuain in their ranks, however, and Messi believes that his side's hopes of success come down to the performances of certain individuals.

"We are going with great enthusiasm and much desire," he told DeporTV. "We have been preparing very well throughout our training camp. We have great players on an individual level and we will fight as an equal to any team, even if we are not the favourites.

"I have taken part in three World Cups in three different situations because of how they were played, and in all of them I took positive things.

"The great favourites will arrive very well in terms of both their team and their individual players. I think it is going to be a very even World Cup."

Barcelona superstar Messi won the Golden Ball award in the 2014 edition of the World Cup.