Real Madrid's former Portsmouth star Lassana Diarra has hit back at Republic of Ireland players over claims he trashed them after France's first-leg World Cup playoff victory.

The 24-year-old France international accused Giovanni Trapattoni's players of making up stories and trying to get their opponents booked.

Diarra has now guaranteed himself a hostile reception from the 25,000 travelling Irish fans at the Stade de France tomorrow night. He is also likely to be singled out by the Irish team who are unhappy with his arrogance and comments.

"I don't know what happened," said Diarra. "The Irish team had just lost 1-0, they were not happy, so of course it was 'our fault'.

"The events that took place at the end of the game often happen when players are annoyed. There were players who tried to see to it that I would get a card from the referee. I did not lose my head. It lasted for 30 seconds and afterwards I went calmly back to the dressing-room.

"I don't know about any altercation. A player came towards me and I looked at him - that is all that happened. Anyway, if there were any words exchanged I'm not aware of them.

"The Irish players do a lot of talking in the newspapers. They are looking to make up stories, claiming we've said this and said that. But I don't see why I would have been talking about the Irish nation. I don't think I'll be singled out for special treatment in the second leg. I think the Irish team will focus on the French side in general. Whatever happens to me happens, but there's no need to worry."