Arsenal legend Lauren admitted he would '120%' do it again when he reflected on the infamous 'Battle of Trafford' brawl against Manchester United in 2003.
During the height of the Gunners' rivalry with United, the 0-0 draw became one of the most notorious games in Premier League history despite the lack of goals. That's because the clash boiled over following a controversial red card to Patrick Vieira and a last-gasp missed penalty by Ruud van Nistelrooy.
Former defender Lauren, who turned 49 on Monday, spent six seasons in north London, making more than 240 appearances under Arsene Wenger and the 'Invincibles' star was involved in several matches against United.
Martin Keown clashes with Ruud Van Nistelrooy in one of the Premier League's most infamous moments
Martin Keown clashes with Ruud Van Nistelrooy in one of the Premier League's most infamous moments (Image: videograb)
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Lauren found himself in the thick of it at Old Trafford when Van Nistelrooy was attacked by Martin Keown for his part in captain Patrick Vieira’s sending-off.
A massive melee followed on the pitch in front of more than 60,000 fans. Among them was Lauren, who admitted his feelings about the Red Devils have not changed in 17 years.
Lauren, Ryan Giggs, Phil Neville
Lauren fought Ryan Giggs and Phil Neville
During the brawl, Lauren fought with Ryan Giggs and grabbed Phil Neville around the throat. Speaking on the Handbrake Off podcast, the Gunners legend said: “People have asked me many times, ‘Would you do that again’.
"I always say 120% I will do it. I don't mind about the ban, the £40,000 fine. I don't care, as long as I protect the people I care for, the people I share the dressing room with, the people I love.
"Because I always said when I came to Arsenal, I feel like they are my family.
Lauren grabs Phil Neville by the neck
Lauren grabs Phil Neville by the neck (Image: Daily Mirror)
"We had a very great batch of people. We cared about each other on the pitch and outside of the pitch so I can consider Arsenal as my family, so therefore I will do whatever is necessary to protect my family.
"In this case against United away from home, I think I would do it every single year if it's necessary."
The dramatic encounter did not stop the Gunners going on to earn the Invincibles title, not losing a single game in the campaign.