Gabby Agbonlahor has called for Arsenal players to be suspended after as many as 10 Gunners stars withdrew from international duty this window.
The former Aston Villa striker believes the Premier League needs to penalise those who choose to withdraw from representing their country for the benefit of their clubs.
With Arsenal on track to win their first Premier League title since 2003-04, a host of players have returned early from international duty last week to regain full fitness ahead of a crucial stretch of games.
Piero Hincapie and Martin Zubimendi were the two latest names to pull out of international duty on Sunday with reported injuries.
Gabby Agbonlahor Slams Arsenal Stars
Arsenal players
Speaking on talkSPORT this morning, Agbonlahor called for the introduction of a new rule after 10 Arsenal players withdrew from international duty last week. The former Aston Villa frontman said:
“If I was part of the Premier League and I was making a decision, I would bring in a new rule, you miss the next Premier League game available if you pull out of international duty. I tell you something, players will stop pulling out.
“Playing for your country is an honour. If I'm Harry Kane, I'm speaking about this and saying, 'Come on, guys, let's not go back to what we were doing four or five years ago where players are pulling out non-stop.'
“I get it, Arteta is doing everything possible to win these trophies. Their next game after the international break is the FA Cup against Southampton.
“I'm just not keen on players pulling out of international duty. It's an honour to play for your country. It doesn't sit right with me.”
Along with Hincapie and Zubimendi, the likes of William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhaes, Jurrien Timber, Eberechi Eze and Leandro Trossard all pulled out of international duty last week after receiving call-ups.
Noni Madueke left the England camp after picking up a knock in Friday’s 1-1 draw with Uruguay, as did Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice, who both did not feature at Wembley.
Injury Expert Makes Noni Madueke Prediction
Noni Madueke was forced off in England vs Uruguay
Following England’s friendly draw with Uruguay, Madueke was spotted leaving Wembley with a brace on his left knee after being forced off with an injury.
The Arsenal winger has sparked concerns he may have suffered a serious setback in his 10th appearance for the Three Lions and his first under Thomas Tuchel since September.
Injury expert @physioscout has now offered his assessment on the forward’s injury, saying Madueke could be forced out for a few weeks if it is confirmed he has a ligament issue.
Madueke, who joined Arsenal from Chelsea last summer, has seven goals and four assists in 31 appearances in all competitions this season.