Sir David Beckham praises 'eternal' Lionel Messi after international retirement

David Beckham said Lionel Messi's legacy will forever live after the Argentina football team captain announced his retirement from international football.

The former English football player took to his Instagram account to pay tribute to the 39-year-old athlete as he drew the curtain on his glorious 20-year career with his national team.

Beckahm began, "This is the moment we get to look back on & realise how grateful we were to witness the greatness of a young kid with a dream..."

"Leo you have been a credit to yourself , your family , your friends and your country..." he continued adding, "Leading by example and creating inspiration for millions of children not just in Argentina but around the whole world.. Leo you delivered the greatest gift to your country and for that your legacy will live forever..."

"Congratulations on all you achieved for Argentina," he concluded.

Messi announced his retirement on August 31 with an emotional reflection on his 20-year journey with his team, posted on Instagram.

Calling his retirement a tough pill to swallow, Messi noted, “It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deep inside but I understand that this is the right moment.”

Messi added that he "loved and will always love being part of the national team" but now it time to pass the torch to young generations.

He noted, “There are some great young players coming through who deserve their opportunity.”

Messi bid farewell to his international journey with 207 caps, a World Cup trophy and two Copa America titles.