The Barcelona forward was named in Alejandro Sabella's preliminary squad for the final two games of qualification; however, with Argentina's progression already confirmed, the 26-year-old has been released from the squad to recover from a thigh injury.

The Argentine Football Association confirmed on their website that Messi, along with Javier Mascherano and Gonzalo Higuain, will not have to meet up with the national team.

A statement read: "Lionel Messi, Javier Mascherano and Gonzalo Higuain were disaffected (from the) national team for matches against Peru and Uruguay."

Mascherano suffered a hamstring injury at the end of September and has missed Barcelona's last three matches.

Higuain was not involved in Napoli's UEFA Champions League clash with Arsenal due to a calf injury and also missed their victory over Livorno on Sunday.

Argentina face Peru on Friday before travelling to Montevideo where they will face Uruguay on Tuesday.