The FAI says that it completely refutes the allegations that have been made about a friendly match between Ireland and Argentina in 2010.

The La Nacion newspaper in Argentina has made a series of stunning claims surrounding the game, which was held at the Aviva Stadium in August 2010.

The article alleges that the Irish players were paid $10K each not to injure Lionel Messi during the game, while it also suggests that the involvement of the Barcelona star was arranged by former Argentina FA president Julio Grondona as a way to appease the FAI over the Thierry Henry incident.

However, the Association has described the claims as "baseless", adding that the fixture was agreed long before the Henry incident and was arranged by a third party - the global marketing group, Kentaro.

The Association also says it will be taking further action and is consulting it's legal advisers.

In a statement, they said: "The Football Association of Ireland completely refutes the allegations made about the Republic of Ireland v Argentina friendly match in La Nacion as baseless.

"The match in question was organised by Kentaro and announced by press release prior to the World Cup play offs in 2009.

"We are consulting our legal advisers in relation to the article, and will be taking further steps."

You can watch individual highlights of Lionel Messi in that game right here.