Lionel Messi joins Argentina prior to Copa América

Lionel Messi has become part of Argentina's squad ahead of the upcoming Copa América.

At his club's training complex in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, the Inter Miami player took part in his first training session with the Albiceleste on Monday afternoon, according to ESPN.

With a hamstring problem, Messi sat out Argentina's international friendlies against El Salvador and Costa Rica in March.

In Saturday's 3-3 league draw with St Louis City, the Argentina captain scored his 12th league goal of the season.

To help Inter Miami remain at the top of the Eastern Conference standings, Messi has also had nine assists in 12 league appearances.

"I think it's good that he's had continuity, that he played after his injury, that is important," Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni said about Messi.

On June 9, Argentina have friendlies against Ecuador and then with Guatemala five days later. To reduce his 29-man squad to 26 players, Scaloni has until June 12.

On June 20 against Canada, Argentina is set to begin their Copa America title defence. In Group A, the World Cup winners also face Chile and Peru.