Argentina stalwart Javier Mascherano has addressed reports suggesting that there is unrest between the players and manager Jorge Sampaoli ahead of their crunch game against Nigeria at the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

Reports: Argentina Squad Hold Crunch Talks With Manager

The South American side is on the verge of getting knocked out during the group stage of the competition after their shock 1-1 draw with Iceland and their 3-0 thumping by Croatia.

On Friday, news broke that the Albiceleste players had tried to get the former Chile coach sacked in the build-up to their game against the African giants, but Mascherano has since played down those claims. 

"The relationship with the coach is completely normal," the former FC Barcelona star said, as quoted by beIN Sports.

"Obviously, when we feel uncomfortable about something we speak with him, because if we did not, we would be hypocrites.

"In a meeting like this one, the most we talked about was about football, and how to find a way to solve our game issues.

"And obviously about how we feel on the pitch as players because we are the ones who must make choices at any time, any stage, any position.

"We know if we do things right, we all will benefit from it, and if things go worse, we all will suffer for it.

"We know the situation is tricky. We have to be united, to express our opinions, and to do everything possible, so the team goes into the game in the best position."

Ex-Barca Teammate: Why I Think Messi Struggles For Argentina

Argentina face Nigeria in their final Group D match on Tuesday night, and will need to beat the Super Eagles to have any chance of progressing to the round of 16.

Do you think the South Americans will qualify for the next round? Have your say in the comments section below.