Argentina shot stopper Emiliano Martinez has attempted to defuse the controversy between himself and the French national team.

Martinez was the hero for his country in Qatar this past winter, saving penalties to help his team win the tournament against the French in the final.

The Aston Villa keeper was criticized for his antics during the penalty shoot out, as well as some overzealous celebrations in the weeks after the game.

“Seriously, it was just a football match," he told French TV channel TMC.

“Honestly, I love France. I've come here plenty of times on vacation.

“I love the French. I shared a room with two French players from Aston Villa.

“And as I said before, Arsenal had lots of great players. Arsene Wenger is a legend and he now works for FIFA. It was good to see him again."