Neymar has hailed Lionel Messi ahead of the 39-year-old’s final game for Argentina.

Messi confirmed his retirement from international football last month.

However, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner will make a farewell appearance for Argentina against Benin on Tuesday.

And Neymar, who formed a formidable attack alongside Messi at Barcelona and also played with him at Paris Saint-Germain, has paid tribute to his close friend.

“Anyone who loves football has enjoyed you throughout all these years…” Neymar posted on Instagram.

“Today is your final game wearing the shirt of your national team, your country, and I hope you enjoy every second of it and that all the tributes today make you happy.

“It’s not only Argentina that thanks you, the whole world thanks you for everything you’ve done for football.

“Thank you for making me love football even more. It was an honour to have played against you, and even more so to have made history alongside you.

“THANK YOU, Leo Messi.”