Lionel Messi produced a sensational performance as Inter Miami ended their poor run of form with a 7-1 demolition of Montreal in Major League Soccer.

The 39-year-old Argentina captain scored four goals and provided an assist for Luis Suarez as Miami returned to winning ways after managing just one victory in their previous seven matches across all competitions.

Messi opened his account before half-time with a deflected free-kick to put Miami 2-1 ahead. He then took complete control after the break, scoring three more times to complete his first four-goal haul in an MLS match.

His second came after a trademark weaving run, before he completed his hat-trick with a delicate finish over the advancing goalkeeper. He then saved another piece of magic for stoppage time, curling a free-kick into the net for his fourth.

Messi also turned provider, setting up Suarez before Casemiro and Alexander Shaw completed the rout.

The four-goal display was the ninth time Messi has scored at least four goals in a single match during his extraordinary career. His haul also took him to 18 MLS goals this season, moving him to the top of the league’s scoring chart.

Inter Miami remain second in the Eastern Conference, 10 points behind Nashville FC, but Messi’s return to form will provide a huge boost as they chase silverware.

Interim coach Guillermo Hoyos was left struggling to describe the performance.

“There are no words to describe such footballing beauty,” Hoyos said.

The performance is particularly significant given Messi’s recent comments about his future following the death of his father, Jorge. The Argentine had admitted uncertainty over how much longer he would continue playing.

For now, however, Messi continues to produce moments that defy his age.

At 39, can Lionel Messi still lead Inter Miami to MLS glory?