Szczesny loves bit of Lionel flair

WOJCIECH SZCZESNY can’t wait to face Lionel Messi in Wednesday’s showdown between Poland and Argentina.

The Juventus keeper put in an outstanding display in his country’s win over Saudi Arabia, saving a penalty and producing a string of saves.

Now he is targeting Messi – especially if the footballing legend takes a penalty.

“One plays at the World Cup to face the best in the world and with all the respect due to Saudi Arabians, I want to face the best,” said Szczesny (inset). “It will be more difficult with Messi because he takes penalties in different ways.

“I’ll prepare as I always do, hoping that I won’t need to face one.” The ex-Arsenal man is also up against striker Lautaro Martinez, having shut out the marksman in Serie A earlier this month. “Argentina have many strong footballers,” said Szczesny. “Lautaro is a great player, but Inter and Juventus have nothing to do with it.

“We are here with our national teams and we’ll do everything to get a good result.”