Barcelona Argentine forward Lionel Messi is likely to be sidelined for up to three months after suffering a foot injury during Sunday's 3-1 Primera Liga win over Real Zaragoza.

The 19-year-old international limped off in the first half and initial reports suggest the player has broken the fifth metatarsal in his left foot which would keep him out for between two and three months.

Further tests will be carried out on Monday but it looks as though he will miss Barca's remaining Champions League Group A matches against Levksi Sofia and Werder Bremen. Barca are third in the group.

Messi's loss would be a major blow to Barca with leading striker Samuel Eto'o still recovering from knee surgery and not expected back until the new year.

Brazilian midfielder Edmilson also picked up an injury on Sunday and is expected to be laid low for around 10 days with a twisted ankle.

Editor: Donald