Soccer star LIONEL MESSI has invited NOEL GALLAGHER to watch him play in Spain to thank the former OASIS rocker for helping him through the recent World Cup.

The Argentine star, who plays for Spanish team FC Barcelona, is a big fan of the defunct British band and admitted he listened to the group's hits as part of his preparations to play for his country in the South African tournament.

Argentina only made it to the quarter-finals in the recent event, which was won by Spain, but Messi is adamant he wants to thank his hero Gallagher for the part he played in getting his team to the final stages of the soccer showpiece.

He tells Britain's The Sun, "Maybe Noel could give the boys a live set after training and they could see how great Oasis are. At the moment they refuse to listen to anything other than Kasabian.

"We could also go for an Argentinean steak at this great South American restaurant in Barcelona. And if my plan works, it will mean Oasis being played in the world's greatest football club."

via L4e / contactmusic.com