Lionel Messi: I hope we are respected

Argentina captain Lionel Messi has urged supporters not to criticise the team following their Copa America exit at the hands of Brazil.   La Albiceleste were dumped out of the competition at the semi-final stage after goals from Gabriel Jesus and Roberto Firmino handed Selecao a 2-0 victory.   Messi, who is yet to win a national tournament with the senior side, hopes the players will not be crucified for their failure to win silverware.   READ: Atletico sign Portuguese wonderkid for €126m   "Something new is on the horizon," Messi told reporters, according to Sky Sports.   "I hope we are respected and not criticised. They should let the team be and let them grow.   "The truth is I have got on very well with this group of players and if I have to help in some way I will. This is a great group which is growing and if I can join them I will."