Olyroos to face Messi in Beijing

The Olyroos' task at the Beijing Olympics has become more daunting with Argentina's superstar Lionel Messi saying he's ready to play.

Reigning Olympic champion Argentina is drawn in Group A alongside Australia, Ivory Coast and Serbia.

Barcelona striker Messi said he had been given approval by his Spanish club to join Argentina at the Olympics in August.

"We've already talked it out," Messi told La Red radio from Spain.

The 20-year-old said he saw nothing that would prevent him from travelling to Beijing as along as he remains health and injury-free.

"I've spoken with many players (on the Athens team) and all told me it was a special experience, very different and very beautiful," Messi added.

Coach Sergio Batista has yet to announce his squad for the Olympics but Messi now appears likely to be the first player picked.

Olympic rosters are limited to players 23 years old and younger, although each team can supplement its side with three players of any age. However, FIFA does not require club teams to release any players for the Olympics, including U23s.

Already, Bayern Munich has announced it will not make Argentine defender Martin Demichelis available.

It remains unclear how many other countrymen playing in Europe will also be available.

Among those considered possible are Sergio Aguero of Atletico Madrid, Fernando Gago and Gonzalo Higuain of Real Madrid, and Ezequiel Lavezzi at Napoli.