Mesut Ozil only has himself to blame for his Arsenal exile.
That's according to Gunners Invincible Lauren, who reckons world-class players have let themselves down if they're not one of the first names on the manager's teamsheet.
Ozil is Arsenal's longest serving and best-paid player on a staggering £350,000-a-week.
But despite his apparent worth to the club, the German has been left out of both Arsenal's Premier League and Europa League squads this season.
Ozil recently revealed his disappointment at being frozen out in a statement shared on his social media accounts, in which he accused Arsenal of disloyalty.
His agent later hit out at the Gunners' treatment of his client, calling on the north London club to provide an "honest explanation" for Ozil's exile.
But Lauren isn't convinced Arsenal are to blame in all this, and has instead pointed the finger at Ozil.
"Ozil is a top player, it's sad to see a top player not being involved in a team like Arsenal," Lauren told Sky Sports News.
"All of us who follow Arsenal want to see the best players but this situation has not come from now. I believe it is the same with Emery and Arteta.
"Arteta would love to have the best players in the squad. If Ozil is not there it's a consequence of many issues.
"First of all, it's the fault of the player. I believe if you have the quality, if you are a top player, if you are not involved week in week out I believe that is your own fault.
"Obviously all of the club have to try to do their best in order to make the player happy and be in the squad and be in the team and play every weekend.
"But the fact that with Emery and now with Arteta he hasn't been consistent it is not the manager. I believe it is more the player than the manager or the club."
Has Mesut Ozil played his final game for Arsenal? Have your say here.
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