He who doesn't like Messi knows nothing about football - Tevez

Argentina forward Carlos Tevez says anyone who does not appreciate team-mate Lionel Messi knows nothing about football.

Argentina kick off their Copa America campaign against Paraguay in a Group B clash on Saturday night, with Messi the main attraction in the Albiceleste attack and Tevez expected to start on the bench in La Serena.

The Barcelona forward, a four-time Ballon d'Or winner, led the Albiceleste to the World Cup final last summer as Tevez was left out by previous coach Alejandro Sabella.

Nevertheless, Carlitos remains more popular than Leo with many Argentines even now, with his humble roots meaning he is seen by many as the "player of the people".

But the 31-year-old says Messi deserves the utmost recognition from his compatriots.