Gabby Agbonlahor urges Premier League bans for Arsenal withdrawals
Former striker Gabby Agbonlahor has urged the Premier League to suspend players who withdraw from international duty after 10 Arsenal squad members returned to their club this week.
The Gunners are currently chasing their first top-flight title since the 2003-04 season and appear to be prioritising domestic fitness over international fixtures.
Speaking on talkSPORT, the former Aston Villa frontman suggested immediate domestic suspensions for those avoiding national team representation.
Agbonlahor proposes new suspension rules
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.
A host of high-profile names, including Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice and Leandro Trossard, pulled out of their respective national camps ahead of the current break.
The 37-year-old pundit believes international football is being severely undervalued in favour of club ambitions.
Playing for your country is an honour. It doesn’t sit right with me.
Arteta prioritising domestic success
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is under immense pressure to finally deliver major silverware to the Emirates Stadium this season.
The north London side will face Southampton in the FA Cup immediately following the conclusion of the international window.
I get it, Arteta is doing everything possible to win these trophies.
Recent arrivals and established starters alike have been caught up in the withdrawal controversy, with winger Noni Madueke leaving the England camp following a 1-1 draw with Uruguay.
Injury concerns mount at the Emirates
The 22-year-old attacker was spotted wearing a knee brace after departing Wembley Stadium.
Medical analysts suggest the former Chelsea forward could face several weeks on the sidelines if scans confirm ligament damage.
He joins a growing list of fitness doubts, with William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhaes and Jurrien Timber also returning early from their international commitments.
