Martinez makes strange apology to Lionel Messi after collision

In Argentina's recent international match with Venezuela, there was a very forceful challenge put on Lionel Messi by Luis Adrian Martinez, for which the latter was shown a red card, although the Venezuelan has now issued a strange apology to the Argentine.

The nature of the challenge was ugly, it could have broken his leg in truth, and what made it all the more galling was the fact Martinez had only been on the pitch for around five minutes.

"Today I have no words, those who know me know that I would never go to hurt the physical integrity of a colleague," Martinez posted on Twitter.

"I just want to offer my apologies to my teammates, the coaching staff and all the Venezuelan fans that support us from the heart. I love my country and I take total responsibility."

The 'apology' made no reference to Messi or his condition and the foul saw Martinez take his sixth red card in 80 matches.