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Emiliano Martinez downplays his controversial celebrations following Argentina's World Cup triumph

Emiliano Martinez has attempted to defuse the controversy he caused by his celebrations after Argentina's World Cup triumph by insisting he 'loves the French'.

The Aston Villa stopper played an integral role in his nation winning the showpiece tournament in Qatar at the end of last year, starring throughout.

Having saved two penalties in their penalty shootout victory over the Netherlands in the quarter-final, he produced similar heroics in the final.

After pulling off a superb last-gasp save from Randal Kolo Muani at the end of extra time, he saved Kingsley Coman's spot-kick, while Aurelien Tchouameni also put his effort wide after Martinez performed several distraction tactics.