Barcelona forward Lionel Messi has spoken glowingly about Gerardo Martino following the emergence of his fellow Argentinian as the favourite to succeed Tito Vilanova in the Nou Camp hot-seat.

DOING his bit to help recast the League of Ireland as a League of Nations is Jermaine Sandvliet - a 28-year-old player who last year joined Drogheda United from Dutch club, FC Dordrecht.

Drogheda United have finalised the Bosman transfer of Dutchman Jermaine Marvin Sandvliet.