France midfielder Lassana Diarra has riled the Republic of Ireland ahead of Wednesday’s World Cup play-off second leg after allegedly telling Keith Andrews at the final whistle: 'You are out'.

Diarra sparked chaotic scenes following Ireland's 1-0 defeat to Les Bleus at Croke Park on Saturday, after refusing to shake his opponents hand and reportedly telling Blackburn’s Andrews: '**** off, Irish p****. You are out.'

Andrews then angrily confronted the Real Madrid powerhouse Diarra, before being joined by Aston Villa defender Richard Dunne, who had to be physically restrained by captain Thierry Henry.

The remarks are likely to fire up the ROI ahead of the unenviable task which awaits them at the Stade de France against Raymond Domenech's men on Wednesday evening.

Speaking to The Daily Mail, Andrews fumed: "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."

Holland remain the only side to lose the first leg of major European play-off and still qualify, after overturning a 1-0 defeat to Scotland to trounce them 6-0 in the return leg in 2004.

The goal was cruel on Ireland, after goalkeeper Shay Given was deceived by a Nicolas Anelka shot which deflected off Sean St Ledger 17 minutes from time.

France boss Domenech dismissed the controversy however, saying: "That's not of my concern. I have to prepare the team for the match tomorrow.

"In fact, I have long since stopped listening to the press as otherwise I probably would have killed myself.

"I never speak about the opponents; I have enough problems with the French team. But I respect the Ireland team and I know they are a solid team."