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Mauricio Pochettino insists he is 'calm' about Lionel Messi's shocked reaction to being substituted as he plays down talk of a rift with the Argentine star who now races to be fit to face Man City

Paris St Germain boss Mauricio Pochettino has played down talk of a rift with Lionel Messi as the Argentina superstar faces a battle to be fit for the Champions League clash with Manchester City.

The 34-year-old was replaced during the second half of Sunday's 2-1 Ligue 1 victory over Lyon and appeared to be less than happy with the decision.

Messi was taken off in the 76th minute and stared sharply at Pochettino when he was withdrawn, while he also appeared to refuse a handshake from his compatriot.

Lionel Messi was unimpressed at being substituted off by Mauricio Pochettino in PSG's 2-1 win

In addition to his furious glance, Messi also made a gesture with his hands apart indicating that he didn't understand the decision.