Blackburn Rovers midfielder Keith Andrews is at the centre of an amazing blow-up with France opponent Lassana Diarra.

The Real Madrid midfielder, whose brilliance had helped virtually destroy the home side's World Cup dream, gave Giovanni Trapattoni's side every incentive to turn round this tie at the Stade de France on Wednesday night.

The Daily Mail says as Andrews and Diarra came together after the final whistle, Diarra said to his opponent: "**** off, Irish p****. You are out."

Speaking on Sunday, Andrews said of his clash with Diarra: "It was a disrespectful comment which typifies them, to be honest. It was typical of him and the way he was.

"There was a bit of niggle in the game but that happens. When the final whistle went, I saw him walking towards me and I thought he was going to shake my hand.

"Then he made a remark and, to be fair, I lost my head a bit. The manager has said he insulted Irish people, which is about accurate.

"You don't expect that from a professional. This play-off is only half-finished and for a person to come out with something like that, it's very disappointing. Our lads are aware of it so we'll see what happens. I don't think it'll take any extra motivation to win it. There's a World Cup place at stake."